[Sig-l] Virtual Reference Software Selection Online Workshop Nov. 3 - 14, 2003

[Eileen Abels]

University of Maryland College of Information Studies announces
Virtual Reference Software Selection
NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE ON YOUR TIME
November 3  - November 14, 2003

Are you overwhelmed by the virtual reference software options available
to you?
Do you know what kind of questions to ask vendors?
How do you analyze what will work most effectively for your patrons?
What kind of features do your reference librarians need?

OR

Are you looking to change from the software you currently use?
Would you like to evaluate options that will allow you to upgrade your
service?

In this workshop, you will learn how to:
Analyze user needs to better inform your decision
Evaluate software features and costs
Identify features that are “musts” in your library
Find out what other libraries are doing
Involve your staff in decision-making

Virtual Reference Software Selection is geared to library managers from
any kind of library and any librarians involved in considering the
fast-breaking developments in the virtual environment. This interactive
web-based course, featuring a high degree of individual attention, will
include readings, message board discussions with peers, valuable
feedback from knowledgeable instructors, and an introduction to the
resources you need to make the best decision about software – all at a
time and from a location most convenient for you!

Time Commitment: A participant should plan to dedicate approximately 5
hours to this course over the two-week period, enough time to review the
course content and readings, participate in online asynchronous
discussion,  and complete course activities and assignments.  Upon
successful completion of the course, .5 Continuing Education Unit (CEU)
will be awarded.

Instructional Team: Dr. Eileen Abels, College of Information Studies,
UMD. Coordinator:  Malissa Ruffner, M.L.S.

Technical Requirements:  You will need a PC with the following
minimums:  Pentium II 266 MHz, 128 MB RAM, sound card and speakers,
Windows 98, NT or ME, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Internet Explorer 5.5.

Registration Information:  The course fee is $190 (includes a $35
nonrefundable registration fee.)  Enrollment is limited and the deadline
for registering is October 29, 2003.  THREE WAYS TO REGISTER! Go To
http://www.clis.umd.edu/ce/softsel.html for Registration details.

For more information, contact Malissa Ruffner at 410-444-8102.or email
mruffner at wam.umd.edu