What is Ask a Librarian?
A free web-based reference service where you and the librarian send instant messages back and forth and share computer screens. You work together to get answers to your questions in real time.
When is the service available?
24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Do I need special software to use this service?
No. To take advantage of all the service capabilities, check the technical requirements to make sure your computer is set-up correctly.
Who can use this service?
Students, faculty, and staff from any of the Maricopa Community Colleges.
Who is answering my question?
An experienced, professional librarian.
Sometimes, the librarian working with you may not be from your college and may be less familiar with all of the specifics of your library. As a result, the librarian might refer your question to a librarian at your college.
What types of questions will you answer?
Questions such as:
- Where do I begin looking for information on a controversial topic?
- How can I locate the author of a webpage so that I can cite it?
- Can you recommend a search engine other than Google or Yahoo?
- How do I check out a book from another MCCCD library?
- Can you help me find articles written in The NY Times?
What if you can’t answer my question?
Some questions may be too complicated to be answered in a chat environment. In these cases, your question will be referred to a librarian at your college. Other requests, such as proofreading a paper, are not appropriate for this service. In these cases, the librarian might refer you to a writing or tutoring center.
We cannot provide legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.
How long will it take a librarian to answer my question?
An average session takes approximately 15 minutes. Depending on the complexity of your question, it might take longer. Calls are picked up on a first-come, first-serve basis. There might be a slight delay in your call being picked up, if the librarian is with another person.
Are my communications with the librarian confidential?
This service makes every attempt to respect and preserve your privacy, and you have the option to remain anonymous. Chat transcripts are retained no longer than 60 days, and only librarians working for this service have access to them. If portions of the transcripts are used for training, evaluation, or a knowledge base, all personal identifying information is stripped prior to use. For more information regarding privacy, please see the QuestionPoint Terms of Service.
Why do you ask for my library barcode number?
This enables the librarian to more quickly troubleshoot problems you might be having with accessing and using library resources from off-campus.
Why do you ask for my email address?
This enables us to send follow-up information, if necessary, and automatically provide you with a complete transcript of your session. Email addresses are never shared with entities outside of the libraries providing this service.
What is my responsibility when I use this service?
By using this service, you agree not to send any question or content that is obscene, libelous, threatening, harassing, or otherwise objectionable. You agree not to send any question or content that otherwise violates any applicable local, state, national, or international law. (MCCCD Technology Resource Standards http://www.maricopa.edu/gvpolicy/adminregs/auxiliary/4_4.htm)
What are my copyright responsibilities?
During your session, the librarian might send you an electronic document from a proprietary library database. These sources are protected by copyright law. Further reproduction of the document, such as printing out multiple copies or emailing copies to friends, may not be authorized. You are responsible for any copyright infringement.
Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to provide accurate information, Ask a Librarian and QuestionPoint 24/7 Reference do not control the content of resources used. The user agrees to hold the participating libraries harmless from any claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities relating to the use of information obtained from these services.
For more information please see the Maricopa Community College District disclaimer
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