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LibChat Training Manual

Getting Started with Video Chat

Springshare offers Zoom integrated in the new chat reference dashboard. To initiate a screenshare, click the "request screenshare" button that appears under the text field in chat. This will create a new Zoom meeting that the librarian and patron can use to share screens or chat via video and/or audio:

The Request Screenshare button

Springshare has an FAQ set up focusing on all aspects of screensharing: Screensharing FAQ from Springshare

Springshare has also produced a video introduction to screensharing: https://training.springshare.com/libanswers/tidbit/libchat-screensharing

There are also some Rutgers-specific resources including a video training session and step-by-step documentation for getting started with screensharing:

 

Video Chat Best Practices

Setting Up and Testing Zoom:

It's a good idea to test your video and audio setup before chatting live with a patron. You can do this from chat by testing with colleagues or by installing and testing the free version of Zoom. Make sure to test your microphone and camera in your Zoom preferences. You can also set up a background image at this point.  

If you choose to share video, you may wish to put up a virtual background for more privacy. Instructions for putting up a Zoom background rae available on this page: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/210707503-Virtual-Background

This article has some other things to consider when setting up a video call including making sure your lighting is sufficient, that your camera is at the right angle to capture your face accurately and that your space is free of distractions. 

Using Zoom in Chat:

When you enter the Zoom meeting from chat, your microphone and camera will be turned off by default. When screensharing, it's important to make sure that your virtual space is also free of private information.

You may want to designate a clean browser that you use for sharing web content for patrons. For instance, if you generally use Chrome for your email and other personal information, you may want to share Firefox when screensharing. It's also important in the screensharing options in Zoom to choose to share specific programs rather than your screen. The video below outlines tips for sharing content selectively: