TinyChat

TinyChat is a free service that allows individuals to create chat rooms and then invite others to join the chat. TinyChat is similar to group chat on various instant messaging services, except TinyChat works right in your browser and there's no need to download software. Anyone with browser access can be invited to join the chat and once you're finished chatting all chat data is removed.

I've never heard of this service before and randomly found it on delicious. I've previously used group chat on AIM and wondered why gchat didn't offer a similar service (unless they do and I've just completely missed it). I've found group chat to be a great way to communicate with a bunch of people at once, especially if you're trying to make plans. I remember using group chat throughout college to keep in touch with friends back home. It's a fun way to communicate with a group.

I can imagine group chat being utilized in a library or learning environment. This service could be used by libraries to create virtual book clubs or provide chat reference to patrons. What impressed me about this site was how easy it was to use. I remember trying to show my mom how to use AOL instant messenger a few years ago and it was quite a process. With TinyChat there's no downloading required and the person can type right in their browser once they've been sent a link. I like the ease of accessibility with TinyChat and I'd be interested to see if this service could be used by libraries.