IM
a
Librarian

IM Guidelines/FAQ

When is IM available?

Monday-Thursday 10-8pm
Friday 10-5pm
Saturday 10-4pm
Sunday 1-8pm

Who can use IM?

This service is a pilot project intended for use by ODU students, faculty and staff.  Non-ODU users may have questions answered if time permits or may be referred to other local resources.

What kinds of questions can I ask?

In general, you can ask for:

  • Help searching the library catalog
  • Assistance selecting and searching appropriate databases
  • Information about the library and its services
  • Help accessing library resources when you are off campus
  • Internet search strategies

You may be referred to other services such as Ask-A-Librarian (email) or Research Consultations (in person) if your question is more complicated or will require more time.

How long will I have to wait to get an answer?

Library staff will respond as soon as possible but patrons at the Reference Desk have priority over IM users. IM users are taken in a first-come-first-served order.

Do I need any special programs or software to use chat reference?

No special software is required. Just start typing in the askODUlib box.  If you already use AIM, Yahoo Instant Messenger, GoogleTalk or MSN Messenger, you can contact us by sending your IM to the screen name “askodulib.” Add us to your buddy list!