LibChat on the Go: Meeting Patrons Where They Are

Real-time virtual conversations are made easy with LibChat! This LibAnswers module is a reference powerhouse that provides an effortless way for patrons to chat with a librarian from any device. Seamlessly integrate custom chat widgets into popular LibGuides, discovery layers, or any webpage to elevate your support.

Never Miss a Question

Navigating the library's digital spaces can sometimes leave patrons feeling lost or confused, but LibChat provides a user-friendly way for library workers to help patrons in real-time. With text formatting, a library of emojis, and canned messages at the ready, nothing gets lost in translation. Library staff find it easy to jump between multiple chats at once with clear new message alerts. Each of your chat widgets can come with custom fallback options, to ensure everyone gets a timely response. Plus, converting a chat transcript into a LibAnswers ticket is a breeze, allowing seamless follow-up with patrons via email.

Chat Statistics Galore

Librarians love data, and so do we! LibChat records reference statistics for excellent quantitative and qualitative reporting. Dig into the analytics and discover your most popular widgets, frequently asked questions, highest volume chat times, and more. Break your data down into hourly, daily, or monthly reports to make actionable decisions with precision.

Need coverage during busy times, weekends, or holidays?

Our 24/7 Global Chat Cooperative, staffed by MLS-degreed librarians, is here to help.

The Power of Customization is in Your Hands 🙌

• Proactive Chat – Promote your chat reference service by setting your widget to pop up after a designated amount of time.
• Automated Prompts & Login Forms – Allow anonymous chats or create custom login forms to collect only the necessary information.
• File Uploads – Choose whether to allow patrons to upload or send files during the chat.
• Screensharing (add-on) – Allow screensharing during a chat, with the option to record and send to the patron when the conversation ends.
• LibAuth Enabled – Only want registered cardholders or current students to be able to launch a chat? Enable LibAuth which works with CAS, LDAP, AD, Shibboleth, and more!
• Chat Rating & Feedback – After the chat ends, you can enable commenting and rating to gather feedback statistics.
• Privacy Scrub – Set up custom privacy scrub windows and only keep the data you need.
• Banning – In case of spam, you can block a user via their email address, SMS number, or IP address.

Ready to Start the Conversation?

Is it time for your library to offer a modern reference service that delights patrons and saves staff time? Join the global community of libraries that use LibChat to improve and enhance customer service. We'd love to share more details, examples of real-world usage, and organize a demo for you and your colleagues. Request more information about LibAnswers with LibChat today!