Instant messaging (IM) is a form of real-time communication between two or more people using typed text over the internet. Surveys show that 42% of internet users use IM, with 36% using it daily. IM is most popular among younger age groups. Libraries are increasingly offering IM reference services to attract young patrons and communicate with users and staff. The document discusses trends in IM usage and provides recommendations for libraries to consider IM outreach.

1. Instant Messaging Trends & Practice NEBASE Annual Meeting West October 4, 2007 Susan Knisely Online Services Librarian Nebraska Library Commission

3. A Live Example! http:// webmessenger.yahoo.com

4. Trends in IM Usage

6. Pew Internet & American Life Project Tracking Survey (2004) IM usage by age group Based on Internet users: 29% After Work (ages 69+, born 1935 or earlier) 25% Matures (ages 59-68, born 1936-1945) 29% Leading Boomers (ages 50-58, born 1946-1954) 33% Trailing Boomers (ages 40-49, born 1955-1964) 37% Gen X (ages 28-39, born 1965-1976) 62% Gen Y (ages 18-27, born 1977 or later)

14. IM Trends in Libraries

20. Meeting Users at their Point of Need http:// nebraska.gov http://www.nlc.state.ne.us/docs/needhelp.html

22. Practice, Practice, Practice!

30. Meebo http:// www.meebo.com

31. My Meebo Account