Minutes, April 18, 2007

Present: M Bartley, P Cohn (chair), A Locknar, G McReynolds (minutes), A Perkins, A Rostoff, H Silver (guest), L Sweeney, M Szarko

RISG support of Bibliographic Software

Howard Silver joined the group to discuss the role that RISG could play in the support and use of bibliographic software such as EndNote, Zotero, and RefWorks. Howard suggested that RISG establish criteria for evaluating this type of software to enable the Libraries to purchase appropriate products in the future. He also stressed that instruction sessions on bibliographic software present opportunities for library staff to promote library services and to partner with the writing programs. In addition, instruction sessions for specific classes can also provide a way to introduce the software.

Concerns were voiced around how to find a way to increase the knowledge about the software among more library staff. It was also suggested that a plan be established to address the technical support issues that face our patrons.

Additional suggestions:

• Create a web page to suggest the appropriateness of specific software - RefWorks vs EndNote
• Share what we are doing - how to use the software and how to teach others to use it
• Create a web page to list suggestions and reviews of new software; the libraries may not necessarily support any of the software listed but it could be an opportunity to receive feedback from students and inform us what to purchase in the future.
  Additional questions:
• Which departments use the software?
• What is the current feedback and usage of the software?
  Howard will send RISG a sampling of RefWorks use statistics.

RISG will continue the conversation around this topic at a future meeting

• How should RISG be involved?
• Confer with Nicole to see if she is already doing some of this work
• Confer with UIG and TAG

RISG's Web Presence

RISG decided to post committee-related documents on a wiki. Peter will contact Nicole to set up an account on Confluence. Angie will work with appropriate staff to make sure that committee information is made available on the wiki.