Contact us by IM

 How to contact us by IM
There are two ways to contact us by IM.
  • Use the IM button on the left side of most Milner Library web pages. This opens a dialog box you can use to send/receive messages to/from our staff without having an IM account.
  • Contact us from your laptop, desktop, or mobile device using AOL Instant Messaging or AIM Express. Our screen name is milnerlibrarian.

We respond to IM questions on a first-come-first-served basis. We may ask you to wait a few minutes if we are already helping someone else.  We appreciate your patience.

 
Who will answer your question? 
The questions you send us via IM are answered by librarians and library staff working at the reference desk in our lobby.  We never redirect your questions to staff at other libraries, universities, or call centers.
 
What types of questions are best suited for IM?
IM is not an ideal communication method for lengthy conversations.  Consequently, our IM service is designed for brief interactions.  We provide research tips and help with library policy and remote access issues.  Here are examples of questions appropriate for our IM service.

What database should I search to find articles about autism?
What search terms should I use to find publications about effects of television violence on child development? 
How do I request a book from another library?
What time does the library close? 
I am trying to get into Lexis-Nexis.  Do I log in with my ULID or UID?

For more involved questions, we may recommend that you visit or call us (see below).  To best assist you, we may refer you to a Milner Library subject specialist.

 
 What if the IM service is off line?
Our IM reference service is generally available when the reference desk in our lobby is open.  If you are unable to reach us via IM during our desk hours, you can visit the desk or phone us at 309-438-3451.  To contact us when our desk is closed, either leave us a voicemail or email us at libemre@ilstu.edu.


 

Milner Library, Illinois State University
Page Contact: Bruce Stoffel
Last Modified: 2009-08-13 09:50:31