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Just ask the library

Have you ever wanted to get instant answers to your reference questions from the comfort of your home or office, or even on the go? You no longer need to look up a phone number or an email address to communicate with a librarian.

Have you ever wanted to get instant answers to your reference questions from the comfort of your home or office, or even on the go?

You no longer need to look up a phone number or an email address to communicate with a librarian. The answers to your questions are just a click away, because all you have to do is - Just Ask!

In September 2011, a group of 17 B.C. libraries, including New Westminster Public Library, joined forces to bring you a new reference service, Just Ask. We are pleased to offer you one more venue to communicate with us, by sending and receiving instant messages via chat software. A computer, smart phone or any other device with Internet connectivity is all you need to get real-time answers to your reference questions. We are committed to providing the same quality service during chat sessions as in-house, including referrals if we cannot fully address your questions online.

This is a free service, available Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The chat box for accessing Just Ask can be found on our website, under Your Library, Ask Us a Question tab. The direct link is www.nwpl.ca/your_library/ask_ us_a_question.php.

The software is easy to use, and your identity is protected. No library card number or identification is required, unless you need help with your library account or would like to use an online resource that requires login information. At the end of your chat session you may get, for future use, the chat transcript sent to you by e-mail.

Experience a very efficient way to get answers to your library-related or reference questions. Don't miss the opportunity to try out this new tool which allows you to connect with us, and you'll be amazed how fast, convenient, and fun it is to - Just Ask!

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