Reference Assistance

We can help you to indentify and locate information you need in the library, on the Internet, or beyond. We provide such reference assistance in a variety of ways whether you’re on campus or elsewhere.

• In-person service
  
  Librarians at the reference or information desk in each library at York will be pleased to assist you in person to find specific information, suggest research strategies, or help you use print and online resources. Please check the opening hours of the appropriate library; note that in some cases, reference service hours are shorter than opening hours.

• By email
  
  York University students, faculty, and staff can receive answers to brief reference questions submitted through our e-mail reference service. This is ideal for obtaining brief, factual information. More complex questions may be best discussed in person at the library, but we will try to provide you with initial suggestions to begin your search.

• Live chat reference
  
  York University Libraries’ live reference service over the Web! Our Ask A Librarian Chat Reference Service allows you to chat with a librarian online in real time to get research help. You will even be able to watch as the librarian shows you how to find resources on your topic.

• by telephone
  
  We can assist you with a number of services by telephone at 416-736-5150 (or simply 55150 if calling from an office phone on campus). Choose option #2 at this number for assistance at the Scott Library reference/information desk when it is open; when desk staff there are occupied with in-person patrons, you may be required to leave a voicemail message. Telephone numbers to other reference desks in the Libraries can be found at the department websites.

• Online tutorials & research guides
  Even without contacting us, you may be able to find the assistance you need by checking our tutorial and guides on a variety of subjects.