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Springshare Launches SMS Reference For LibAnswers

Springshare (http://springshare.com), a provider of Web 2.0 apps for libraries, announced a new addition to its LibAnswers platform-an SMS Reference module that enables libraries to receive texted reference questions from their customers. LibAnswers aggregates questions and answers from the web, from Twitter, and via SMS into one low-cost solution.

The SMS Reference Module is integrated into the LibAnswers workflow. Librarians get email and IM notifications for incoming SMS questions and they can collaborate on answers, claim questions, and pass notes. A wide variety of SMS statistics enables libraries to examine such details as the monthly/daily/hourly distribution of SMS questions, as well as compare SMS stats with Twitter and Web reference stats. An optional LibAnswers Analytics tool lets libraries analyze and evaluate the trends and staffing needs for each reference channel. With its unlimited number of simultaneous logins, libraries can feel confident about advertising the SMS number in LibAnswers widgets, embedding it into web pages, blogs, courseware, etc.

A hosted solution, the module assigns a local phone number for each library so there are no short codes or special keywords to memorize. With the exception of a one-time setup fee of $149, Springshare is offering the SMS Reference Module to libraries free of usage charges for the first year. This includes 400 messages per month. Any unused messages are carried from month-to-month, for 4,800 messages total. After the free first year, a variety of plans are available, starting at $30 per month. For more information contact sales@springshare.com or visit http://springshare.com/libanswers.

Source: Springshare