Ask a Librarian.... All kinds of questions and get great answers!
Libraries have a lot in place to ensure that their patrons are able to find the answers to the questions they have no matter the topic. There are extensive library resources dedicated to helping people with research topics, job queries, and technology troubles. These resources are made as accessible as possible through extended library hours and online access. It is a really simple process- anyone is able to use the services to search for answers.
Delaware Libraries make it easier for their community with their “Ask a Librarian Delaware” page. They give people multiple options for contacting a librarian. You can use their Facebook page, text, call, or email to ask a question. The email is encouraged for people who are wanting to submit interlibrary loan requests. For those who can’t find the materials they want in the Delaware Library Catalog, this is a useful way to borrow items from libraries outside of Delaware.
Useful Sections in “Ask a Librarian”
The website for Delaware Libraries includes links and information to help someone in their search. One is the LibGuides link which includes over one hundred topics with useful resources. These include guides on various awards, social justice, authors in Delaware, the coronavirus, and many more. This is one of the first places people can look if they’re searching for an answer to a question or waiting on a response from the librarian.
The A-Z Database List contains many links to reference databases that can help someone in their search. There is a great LibCal events calendar that has information on the various programs at the libraries from support groups to craft kits to hours for the testing center.
Finally, an extremely helpful portion of the page is the posted FAQ section that contains all of the previously asked questions. These can come in handy because, usually, when one person has a question, someone else is looking for the answer as well. People have asked about operating hours, differences in ebook apps, and library cards.
Many libraries have begun implementing this convenient feature for their patrons. This not only gives the public more ways to contact the library for help, it also provides an additional library resource to help them in their explorations.