In an effort to publicize our new text message feature, KnowItNow24x7 is providing the text below for libraries to use as a model press release or for posting on their websites. Libraries can also take advantage of the QR Code for the knowitnow keyword created for the statewide texting services.

Sample Press Release/Website Posting for knowitnow

KnowItNow24x7, Ohio's online reference service, now offers text messaging as a way to send questions. Ohioans can text the word "knowitnow" to 66746 for brief instructions or simply begin their text message with the word "knowitnow" and send it. Any kind of question is welcomed; however, those that can be answered with brief, factual information are most effectively handled through texting. KnowItNow24x7 will try to answer questions with a single text message if possible. KnowItNow24x7 does not charge for any of its services, but phone carriers' regular text message and data rates apply.

KnowItNow24x7 is staffed by librarians around Ohio in public, academic, and special libraries as well as independent librarians staffing the service afterhours. KnowItNow24x7 continues to offer reference assistance by live chat at http://www.knowitnow.org and also interacts with Ohioans through e-mail and instant messaging.

Texting KnowItNow24x7 will connect you with an Ohio librarian somewhere within the state, not necessarily your local library. If your local library does not offer texting as way to contact them, feel free to encourage them to contact KnowItNow24x7 for details on how they can offer this kind of local service.

For additional details, visit http://knowitnow.org/about_texting.php.

Local Texting Sample Press Release/Website Posting

[Your local library] (in collaboration with KnowItNow24x7, Ohio's online reference service) now offers text messaging as a way to send questions to our librarian. You can now text the word "[insert local keyword]" to 66746 for brief instructions or simply begin your text message with the word "[insert local keyword]" and send it. Any kind of question is welcomed; however, those that can be answered with brief, factual information are most effectively handled through texting. [Your local library] will try to answer questions with a single text message if possible. [Your local library] does not charge for any of its services, but your phone carrier's regular text message and data rates apply.