AWERProcedia Information Technology & Computer Science 1 (2012) 858-862 2 nd World Conference on Information Technology (WCIT-2011) Feasibility study on incorporating electronic reference services in the library websites of government-sponsored universities in Metro Tehran Majid Sabzipour* a , Nader Naghshineh b a Majid Sabzipour, M.A. Library and Information Science, University of Tehran, Iran b Nader Naghshineh, Information Studies Lab, University of Tehran, Tehran 14155-3993, Iran Abstract The present paper investigates the present status of the library websites of the government-sponsored universities in metropolitan Tehran and the preconditions necessary for upgrading of existing electronic reference services thereof. A questionnaire was distributed among the directors of libraries in question addressing issues such as finances, equipment, technical expertise and staff skills. Findings demonstrated that these libraries have been relatively successful in adapting ICT to library operations. In comparison with the technical and circulation departments, Reference service staff however demonstrated less familiarity with web technology. Library directors believe that lack of proper equipment and infrastructures as well as shortage of expert staff constitute the main impediments in offering e -reference services. Keywords: Electronic Reference Services, Dighital Reference Services, Academic Library, Library Websites, Tehran; Selection and peer review under responsibility of Prof. Dr. Hafize Keser. ©2012 Academic World Education & Research Center. All rights reserved. 1. Introduction Librarians nowadays are increasingly called upon to serve remote patrons. Technological breakthroughs in computer mediated Knowledge-verse, have put librarians in a unique position as guide to a vast information store that may span the globe. Many patrons have higher expectations and require the information they seek to be available in a more user-friendly way. Interactive web based services is often seen as an optimal mode for * ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE : Majid, Sabzipour, M.A. Library and Information Science, University of Tehran, Iran. E-mail address :majid.sabzipoor@gmail.com & nnaghsh@ut.ac.ir/ Tel.: +989151053708; fax: +98-21-88025917