Using Ask a Librarian Chat:

• The Instant Messaging screen name will be logged on from 9:00am - 5:00pm on weekdays and staffed by Reference Librarians.
• Questions should be brief, focused and specific.
• Questions about use of library systems (catalogs, indexes, databases) may also be submitted.
• Instant Messages will be responded to on a first-come, first-served basis. Most often the librarian will respond to an IM within five minutes. NOTE: If the Librarian is busy with one or more patrons, or is otherwise occupied, you may be asked to send an email using our Ask a Librarian! Form. If you would like an IM response, please provide your AIM Screen Name in your Ask A Librarian email message.
• Also, if you have a lengthy or involved question, you may be asked to e-mail the librarian to schedule a research consultation.
• Response by librarian will state the source of the information being sent.
• Response will NOT include copies of books or articles.
• The confidentiality of the patron will be respected.
• This is a FREE service that anyone with internet access may use. If you do not have one of the instant messaging systems, you can sign up at one of the accounts listed above or type into the text box on the right hand side.

Send us your questions using our Ask A Librarian Form. A response will usually be sent by email within 48 hours. Questions received during evening, weekend or holiday hours will be handled on the next business day.

Email Reference Procedures:

• Electronic reference email questions may be submitted on the Ask a Librarian! Form available on the FAU Libraries homepage.
• Electronic reference mailbox will be checked at regular intervals on weekdays by Reference Librarians.
• Questions submitted electronically should be brief, focused and specific.
• Questions about use of library systems (catalogs, indexes, databases) may also be submitted.
• Questions that are too broad will be returned to the patron with an invitation to visit the library and work with a librarian.
• Questions will be handled by the librarian monitoring the mailbox. However, a question may be submitted to a subject specialist librarian.
• Patron will be contacted by email or phone if clarification of the question is needed.
• Response to the question should be received by the patron within 24-48 hours excluding weekends or holidays.
• Response by librarian will state the source of the information being sent.
• Response will NOT include copies of books or articles.
• The confidentiality of the patron will be respected.