Migrating to internet-based reference services: Issues for the smaller academic library

Developing Internet-based reference services is a challenge being addressed by most reference librarians. This article discusses the migration to Internet-based reference services in a smaller academic library, focusing specifically on the Heindel Library at Penn State Harrisburg. How Internet-based services are implemented depends on the philosophical paradigm of the library and the concept of the “virtual library.” Planning for the transition to Internet-based reference services involves consideration of management issues, user issues, and collection development issues. This article examines these issues and their implications within the context of the smaller academic library.