L-Net for Students

Do your students have a big project coming up that requires online research, but will be unable to make it as a class to the BCL for a database instructional? L-Net may be just what you're looking for!

What is L-Net?

L-Net is Oregon's premier statewide online reference service, fielding questions through an innovative instant messaging service and e-mail. Reference librarians from school, public and academic libraries across Oregon are available to help on L-Net 24/7, with the exception of a few holidays. During evening, weekend and morning hours, a librarian elsewhere in the United States will answer the inquiry. The BCL has been an L-Net partner for over one year!

How does L-Net work for students?

The L-Net software is an attractive, user-friendly GUI (Graphical User Interface) similar to AOL Instant Messenger or Google Messenger, which many teens are quite savvy about using for chatting with their friends. It even comes complete with a wide range of emoticons! Furthermore, L-Net is a gateway to the world of online research, including databases and trustworthy Web sites. Larger class visits during a research project or for familiarization are encouraged with two weeks of advance notice! Transactions take anywhere from 20-30 minutes or less, depending on the complexity of the question and the availability of resources at the particular library. E-mail questions are replied to with a 1-2 day turnaround. Occasionally, questions in chat will need to be referred by e-mail to another library for further clarification.
Examples of questions currently waiting to be answered:

I am looking for a graphic novel that is historical non-fiction.

Hi, I need to know about sea life.

How can I find a list of the companies that have down-sized in the Portland area in the last month?

What about getting my class or school involved?

For more information on L-Net as it applies to teachers and students, including technology information, please see http://www.oregonlibraries.net/for_schools.