Ask a Librarian - Chat | Ask a Librarian - E-mail | Ask a Librarian - Phone or Face-to-Face | Help with Technology | Tutoring
Chat Reference
What is chat reference?
During selected hours, a librarian from the Reference or Undergraduate libraries is available at the click of a button to help you use the library, or to assist you in finding information through real-time, two-way communication. Go to UIUC's Ask a Librarian!, then click the "Chat with a Librarian Online" link, then click the Talk link, and type a question. No extra software is needed on your machine. A response is typed in by the librarian and will appear shortly on your screen.
What is IM and how does it work?
IM stands for "Instant Message," and refers to software like AOL Instant Messenger which can be used to have a live conversation with a librarian. To contact us, send a message from your IM software to one of our Screen Names (Buddy Names): askuiuc (Main Reference Library) and askundergrad (Undergraduate Library).
If you do not wish to download and install Instant Messenger on your computer, you may use a web-based version at AIM Express. This service allows you to create a screen name and to chat, without downloading any software.
We also have accounts on Yahoo! Messenger and MSN Messenger with the same names (askuiuc and askundergrad).
What's the difference between the "Chat with a Librarian Online" and using IM?
The "Chat with a Librarian Online" uses robust software where the librarian can "push" websites to you, to visually show you where to go and what to do. IM - Instant Message is text-only, similar to quickly sending emails back and forth.
When is real-time help available?
The service's hours vary throughout the year, and are listed on the Ask a Librarian homepage.
When the service isn't available, you have the option of calling the UIS Information Desk (217-206-6633), or asking your question via our form at Ask a Librarian.
What if I can't get through or no one answers?
If the librarian is currently busy with another user (online or in-person), you may get no response or a message asking you to wait. You always have the option of calling the UIS Information Desk (217-206-6633), or asking your question via our form at Ask a Librarian.
Who can use this service?
The service is intended primarily for current students, faculty, and staff at UIS or UIUC.
What kinds of questions can I ask?
The service is primarily intended to assist in using the library and its resources. We can answer questions about the library, help you use the library's online catalog and databases, and help you find information on the web. We can also answer brief factual and ready reference questions. A suggested limit of 15 minutes will be placed on individual chat sessions.
What kinds of questions can't you help with?
Extensive research questions are beyond the scope of this service. Also, if you want document delivery or need to request a book or article through Interlibrary loan, please see Borrow Items from Other Libraries. If you question concerns billing, fines, or questions about materials you have checked out, please contact Circulation.
I am having trouble getting the main Chat service to work. What is up with pop-up blockers?
Pop-Up Blockers must be turned off to use the main chat service. Here is a list of sites that explain how to turn OFF built-in pop-up blockers :
Do you save email and chat transcripts?
We regularly purge our archives of all old email and chat transcripts. Some are used for service evaluation and research purposes, however. See Our Privacy Policy for more details.
E-mail Reference
How can I ask a question via e-mail?
Please go to Ask a Librarian and use our form.
Are there any restrictions?
No, though extensive research questions may require further consultation.
Who should I contact if I want to e-mail the librarian for my department?
See the Librarians by Subject Area for contact information for the librarian assigned to your department.
Phone or Face-to-Face Reference
What is the phone number?
Please call us at 217-206-6633.
Where should I go to ask a question?
The Information Desk is located on Level 2 of Brookens Library.
What are the hours?
Hours During Fall & Spring Semester:
- Monday-Thursday: 9:00am - 10:00pm
- Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am - 6:00pm
- Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Tutoring
The Center for Teaching and Learning in BRK 460 offers help to students in improving skills in writing, grammar and usage, math and statistics, software applications and computer programming, reading, studying, test taking, and, through a peer tutoring program, virtually any subject taught on the campus. |
