Information and Reference Services

Reference Librarians can help you in finding the information you need. Reference services are offered at reference desks in the WSU Libraries and by telephone or by e-mail and instant message.

Librarians also provide instruction, research consultation and Subject & Resource Guides.

Members of the University community may ask basic reference questions by electronic mail or instant message.

Questions most suitable for this type of communication are:

To send a reference question by email, fill out the Ask A Question Form.
To ask a question by instant message, use our IM forms or addresses.

In addition to offering individual instruction at the reference desk, librarians offer classroom instruction to facilitate effective use of information resources. Instruction sessions vary from basic introductory classes to those focused on subjects or specialized resources, such as electronic databases and the Internet. Instruction may take place in the classroom or in the library. See the Library Classes for a schedule of classes for the campus community. Contact the librarian subject specialist in your discipline to schedule classes related to a specific course or on a specific topic.
Librarians also provide individual assistance to staff, faculty and students who want more detailed knowledge of information resources in a subject area. This assistance is available by appointment. Please contact the subject specialist in your discipline to set up this type of research consultation.