1. What is IMYourLibrarian?
IMYourLIbrarian is the Library's chat service which offers real-time reference assistance using AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo Messenger, or MSN Messenger.
2. What do I need to do to get started?
If you already have an account with AOL, Yahoo, or MSN instant messenger services, add our screenname - Library911 (RWULibrary911 for Yahoo).
If you are new to instant messaging, you will need to register for an account and screenname and either download free software or use a web-based version.
AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) ( or AIM Express, which requires no download)
Add Library911 to your Buddy List: Double click on Library911 to send a message to reference staff.
MSN Messenger (no web version available)
Add Library911 to your Contact List: Double click on Library911 to send a message to reference staff.
[For MSN you may need to select the option of sending an email when you add Library911.]
Yahoo Messenger (or Yahoo Web Messenger, which requires no download)
Add RWULibrary911 to your Friend List: Double click on RWULibrary911 to send a message to reference staff.
3. When is the IMYourLibrarian service available?
The service is available whenever the reference desk is open. Regular hours during the academic year are: Monday - Thursday, 9:00-10:00; Friday, 9:00-4:00; Saturday, 1:00-5:00; Sunday, 2:30-9:00 .
4. What is the library's privacy policy?
IMYourLibrarian sessions will be saved for training purposes; however, identifying information about the user will be deleted.
5. What kinds of questions may I ask?
The service is intended to offer brief reference assistance. Those seeking more extensive research assistance will be urged to make a research consultation appointment with a librarian.
6. Where do I go to offer feedback on the service?
We encourage you to fill out our brief evaluation form. Your feedback will help us determine what hours the service will be available, and make any other adjustments that are necessary.
7. How do I begin a IMYourLibrarian session?
Add our screenname, Library911, to your AOL or MSN contacts; Add RWULibrary911 for Yahoo. Double-click on our screenname, OR
type our screenname in the To: box of any of the programs.
8. What can I do to get assistance if IMYourLibrarian is unavailable?
The library can also answer your questions by email, phone or in person. See our Ask Us page for a full range of options.
