Consultations

About a Consultation Meeting

A consultation meeting with a reference librarian is available to students and staff whenever personalized assistance is needed regarding subject resources, research strategies, library technology, or format styles. The meeting typically lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Consultations are offered on an as-needed basis during semesters, summer, and interim periods. Consultations are generally anytime during Reference Desk hours. Appointments may be made for evening or weekend hours; people that are off-campus during weekdays are encouraged to make an appointment.  

Telephone and email consultations are also available to students and instructors involved in distance learning courses and for whom the University Library is not readily accessible.

Standard Services

The standard consultation service focuses on research, electronic databases, and resources. Read on to learn how to arrange for a personal consultation.

Prepare Yourself

  • Organize your thoughts. Write out your topic need or problem statement.
  • Begin a library search from the Library Home Page to become familiar with some of the resources.
  • Write down questions and problems encountered during the search.

Sign-up for Consultation

  • Appointments for a consultation are made by submitting a consultation request form or by contacting the Reference Desk at least two working days in advance.
  • Provide a problem statement or description of your consultation need so that a reference librarian can prepare for the meeting with you.

The Consultation

  • Come to the Reference Desk or communicate with the consulting librarian as per arrangements made.
  • Bring a list of questions and problems.
  • Mention any library resources you have already used.
  • The librarian will suggest the most appropriate resources for you, guide you through the research process, and answer your questions.
  • Be sure you understand the librarian. If explanations are not clear, ask for further clarification. Don't be hesitant. Our job is to help YOU!
  • Ask for the librarian's contact information so you can readily get in touch for later followup.

Follow-up

  • Review information given at the consultation.
  • Begin to use the recommended resources.
  • If further help is needed, do not hesitate to contact the librarian with whom you met or the Reference Desk .

Special Needs Services (Assistance for Library Users with Disabilities)

Consultations with the Assistive Technology Librarian may also include instruction in using the library's assistive technology equipment. Additional details and contact information is available for Services for People With Disabilities.

Last Updated: 06/08/2011   Last Revised: 06/08/2011