Who Can Use the Service?

Whether you need help getting started with your research or you're looking for more basic information, such as facts and figures, the University Library is available to answer your questions. The goal of the Ask a Librarian service is to provide support and meet the information needs of Norfolk State University students, faculty and staff.

 

When is this service available?

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 – 11:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 – 5:00 p.m.

The above schedule excludes university holidays. The service is currently not available Saturday - Sunday.

 

How long will it take a librarian to answer my question?

Questions will be answered within two business days in the order in which they are received.

 

Can I ask a question anonymously? Who sees my question?

Questions can be submitted anonymously, although an email address is required. This service will make every attempt to respect and preserve your privacy. Only library staff members will have access to the questions submitted to this service. Questions will be retained for 90 days, after which time any identifying information such as names and email addresses will be edited from the questions and deleted. Questions may be added to a database of frequently asked questions accessible to librarians for training and evaluation purposes.

 

Who should I contact if I have questions or comments about this service?

Questions and comments can be sent to: libraryinfo@nsu.edu 

 

What kinds of questions can I ask?

Examples:

• Brief factual questions...
• Help with search strategies...
• I need to find information on ... where should I start?
• Information on Library Resources & Services...
• How do I connect to the electronic resources from home?
• What are the Library's hours for the summer?

Lengthy research assistance is available through our Consultation service. We do not loan items held at other libraries or provide photocopies of journal articles through Ask a Librarian at this time.

 

How do I submit my request?

• Complete and submit the Web form
  If you prefer not to use the Web form, the following alternatives may be used to obtain reference assistance:

• In-Person/Phone:
  The Information Services Desk at the Lyman Beecher Brooks Library is available to answer your questions during the majority of the hours the library is open. Please see our website for more details. For telephone assistance, please call: 757-823-8517.

• U.S. Mail:
  Information Services Lyman Beecher Brooks Library 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, VA 23504

 

I've submitted my request. Now what?

Library staff will check for incoming Ask a Librarian requests throughout the day. Questions will be answered within the next two business days in the order in which they are received.