Virtual reference is a vital component in twenty-first century reference service and the time for debate over its virtues and necessity has passed. This book focuses on the practical implementation of instant messaging (IM), including privacy and security and its future potential. Targeting busy practitioners who are looking for comprehensive answers about instant messaging in particular, rather than virtual reference in general, this book addresses questions from the basics of what IM is and how it operates to the more complicated issues such as privacy and security to its future potential as a strong candidate in the virtual reference arena. - Exclusively focused on instant messaging reference services - Provides practical information about starting and running a successful instant messaging reference service - Includes significant background information and in-depth discussion of the broader issues raised by instant messaging and instant messaging reference