1b. Instant Messaging

The What

Instant Messaging (IM) is a form of communication that allows two or more participants to ”talk” with each other via text in real time. IM actually existed before the Internet in various forms and has continued to evolve so today it can include voice and webcam features.

The Why

IM can be a quick and easy way to communicate with a friend or colleague in a different part of the building or miles away. It differs from email in that it is real time. So if you have a short question, you can ask and receive your answer immediately. Many people equate Instant Messaging with “chatting” and there can be similarities, certainly in the informal chat acronyms used such as LOL (laugh out loud), BRB (be right back) or BTW (by the way). Some of the popular Instant Messaging software used today include:

  • AIM (AOL)
  • Windows Live Messenger
  • Yahoo! Messenger
  • GTalk
  • Skype
  • Meebo

The How

Discovery Exercise

First, you have to decide which service you would like to use and some require downloading the appropriate software. You might want to talk to your friends or colleagues to figure out which software would be best for you. The software is usually not large and can be downloaded, installed and up and running within minutes. Below are links to Google’s, Microsoft and Yahoo’s popular IM software.

  1. Choose your software and install.
  2. Using the “Add contacts” option, add some friends or colleagues.
  3. Start a conversation and explore the features in your program.

More for the Curious

Check out Meebo at www.meebo.com. Meebo allows you to sign into multiple accounts across different platforms without downloading the software. How could this be useful in a library setting on public access computers?

 

Communication Home | Next up: 1c. Microblogging – Twitter

About the Author

Ross Callender

Ross Callender

Ross Callender works as the Western Colorado Regional Consultant for the Colorado Library Consortium and is based in Grand Junction but travels all over the Western Slope, visiting libraries and providing continuing education opportunities. You can communicate with him via: