Chat with a Librarian Frequently Asked Questions
How does Chat with a Librarian work?
You are placed in a queue when you launch your chat request. Please be patient as it may take a few minutes before you receive a response, especially if the librarian is working with another caller. Besides your name and e-mail address, you may be asked to provide additional information that could help the librarian better respond to your question, such as:
- Department or program of study
- Graduate or undergraduate status
- Whether you are using a computer inside the library
- What resources you have already consulted
The librarian may also ask whether you are willing to be contacted by phone during the chat session. Sometimes a phone call may be a more effective means of assisting you. In keeping with library policy, all information is considered confidential and is accessible only to designated library staff.
As you chat, keep in mind that it may take a few minutes for the librarian to respond. The librarian may need time to assess your question, locate online sources, and compose a response. While you wait, you can continue to use other programs on your computer or use another browser window connected to the Internet. If you wish to end the chat session, please let the librarian know before you click on Exit.
