Instant Messaging (IM) Chat Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is IM Chat?
2. When is the IM Chat service available?
3. Who can use IM Chat?
4. What kinds of questions may I ask?
5. Is IM chat confidential?
6. How can I get assistance if IM Chat is unavailable?
1. What is IM Chat?
Each LMU reference librarian has an individual chat account. You can add a librarian to your buddy list in AIM, MSN Messenger, or Yahoo! Messenger. Or you can start a chat session anytime by typing your question directly in the chat box on their staff page. It's up to you!
If you know which librarian you'd like to chat with, click here to access their individual staff page. (Look for the "web page" link.)
If you have a question and aren't quite sure who to go to, click here to see who's online!
2. When is the IM Chat service available?
Each librarian chooses when to be available via IM Chat. Chances are pretty good that you'll be able to find at least one librarian online between 9 AM and 6 PM on weekdays. Click to see who is online at any given time.
3. Who can use IM Chat?
Our intended audience for this service is LMU students, faculty and staff.
4. What kinds of questions may I ask?
The service is intended to offer brief reference assistance. Those seeking more extensive research help might be asked to come to the reference desk, or to set up an appointment with a librarian for an in-person research consultation.
5. Is IM chat confidential?
Each IM session is a private conversation between the patron and the librarian. Transcripts from IM Chat sessions may be saved for training purposes. However, all identifying information about you will be deleted. Our IM reference service is in compliance with the Library Privacy Policy.
6. How can I get assistance if IM Chat is unavailable?
We offer reference service in person at the reference desk in the library, by phone, and by individual appointment as needed. LMU also offers 24/7 chat reference in cooperation with other Jesuit Universities around the country. Please visit our Get Help page for service hours, contact information, and links.