KnowItNow24x7, the first virtual reference service in the world to be available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, was launched on this day in 2001. Bob Carterette, Sari Feldman, Tracy Strobel and many others (including the numerous library staff members who answered those first questions) were instrumental in bringing this groundbreaking service to fruition.
Beginning as a regional service, KnowItNow24x7 "graduated" to statewide status in 2004 with the help of an LSTA grant from the State Library of Ohio. The ongoing support of the State Library is instrumental in the continuing development of the service. With OhioLINK officially joining in early 2008 and new software being implemented in September, the upcoming year is shaping up to be another exciting one.
From the AfterDark provider who answers that frantic question asked by a student at 3 AM to the dedicated daytime librarians who staff the service, day in, day out, everyone who has been or is a part of this tradition can be proud of their invaluable contribution.
Thank you all and Happy Birthday, KnowItNow24x7!