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Library Studies: Customer Service

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Course Databases - Customer Service - Library Studies

Customer Service: Live Chat Etiquette for the Library

Many Libraries now have an online chat feature available for anyone to use. Consider the following points when assisiting someone over a live chat:
  • Greet the patron before trying to answer their question 
  • Read their question properly 
  • Do you understand their question?
  • Don't overuse canned messages
  • Proofread your responses: grammar, jargon, tone, conciseness
  • Ensure you don't leave too much time between messages
  • Before closing the chat, ask the patron if there is anything else you can help them with
  • Review any feedback the patron may have left
  • Place appropriate subject tags on the conversation transcript 

Customer Service: Email Etiquette for the Library

Working in any Library you will be required to communicate via email with colleagues and Library patrons. Consider the following points before hitting send: 
  • Clear subject line
  • Friendly greeting
  • Polite tone and concise content
  • Check any attachments
  • Proofread
  • Consider recipients - Do you need to 'reply all'?
  • Include an appropriate sign off and professional signature block