Definition

Service that allows users to send text messages (SMS messages) via their cell phones to a library. The library receives the messages in their e-mail client (such as Microsoft Outlook). The librarian's reply is composed as an e-mail message that is then edited down automatically by special software and sent to the user's cell phone as in incoming text message.

Tools

• Reference by SMS A subscription service offered by Altarama (an Australian company)
• Teleflip A free tool that allows you to use your e-mail client to send text messages to any cellphone (as long as you know the cell phone number).
• Text a Librarian (Mosio)
• Google Voice
• Library H3lp

Further Reading

• Stephen Francoeur's posts on his Digital Reference blog
• ACRLog post with Feb. 2006 update on where SMS reference is (make sure you read the comments at the end of the post)
• Post on Librarian in Black blog with usage details of first US library trying out SMS reference

Discussions at VR SIG Meetings

• 2005 February 1 Meeting
• 2005 May 2 Meeting
• 2009 October 23 Meeting