Details about the Ask Us Chat Service

Ask Us Chat provides assistance with questions related to library services and resources. We are available to answer questions any time that either of our two main libraries is open.

Who we serve

• NC State University students, faculty, staff, and affiliates
• Researchers from outside NC State University

How we can help

Our service focuses on questions relating to library services and resources, including:

• Finding books, articles, and other materials
• Using library databases and search tools
• General research assistance
• Borrowing and returning materials
• Informational and directional questions
• General questions about the NC State University Libraries, its collections, and its policies

We will do our best to answer other questions or to direct you to the best point of contact.

What to expect

• We normally answer questions in the order we receive them.
• Some questions may take more time to answer. We appreciate your patience as we look for the answers to your questions.
• For complex questions, we may best assist you through email follow-up or by referring you to a subject specialist librarian for additional support.

Courtesy and Respect

Courtesy and respect are expected from everyone. We will not tolerate abusive, inappropriate, or disrespectful interactions, and we may restrict your access to the chat service if you engage in unacceptable behavior.

The Rules for the Use of the NC State University Libraries apply when using chat services.

Privacy and Security

• We keep chat transcripts solely for internal library purposes. Only authorized staff can view those transcripts.
• We may ask for personal details such as name, email address, or borrower number to provide the best service to you. You are not required to share such information, though we may not be able to address certain issues without these details.