Guidelines

Who may ask a question?

The "Ask a Librarian" service is intended for UCI students, faculty, and staff. If you are not affiliated with UCI, we will respond to questions about UC Irvine and the collections and resources of the UCI Libraries.

In some cases, those not affiliated with UC Irvine may be referred to another community library, online research service or asked to visit the UC Irvine libraries in person for additional assistance. Non-affiliated may want to begin their in-depth research by exploring the alternative resources below.

What kinds of questions may I ask?

Questions about which resources to use (California Digital Library/Melvyl databases, the Internet, government information, etc.) How to begin your research and suggested search strategies. Requests for brief factual or statistical information Questions about the UCI Libraries resources, services, and facilities.

Who will answer my question?

Reference librarians and reference staff

When will I receive a response?

E-mailed questions will be responded to as quickly as possible and always within 24 hours Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).

Suggested alternative resources

• Consult your local school or public library
• The Internet Public Library
• Pitsco's Ask an Expert, AskA+ Locator, Librarians' Index to the Internet
• UCI students, faculty, and staff may make an appointment through our Research Consultation Service at the Science Library, or the Langson Library. For further assistance you are welcome to visit one of our reference desks.