Are you a special collections librarian with materials that researchers can’t see unless they can get on a plane? Do you worry about the effect of this on the planet, not to mention on researchers for whom travel isn’t possible? Born out of the pandemic and a spare webcam, the California History Section’s video-reference program attempts to reduce the need for patron travel without imposing an undue burden on library staff via 30-minute video appointments with our rare materials and a librarian. Evaluate whether a similar program would help your patrons, explore technical considerations, and conduct a practice session with your peers. This program will be of interest to special collections librarians with limited time and funds but a strong desire to promote remote access in a way that is sustainable for patrons, library staff, and the planet.
