There are many ways for students and faculty to quickly contact a librarian during staffed hours. You may also look up individual librarians by name or by department or program to contact a librarian directly.
Chat
You can get help from a librarian 24/7 via the Library Help page or by clicking on the yellow Ask a Librarian icon in the lower right corner of any page. Learn more: Chat FAQ.
Email ask@sfsu.libanswers.com or fill out the Email Questions Form and get an answer within 48 hours. Learn more: Email FAQ.
Drop-In Help & Appointments
Drop-in help is available at the Book Checkout & Pickup Desk on the first floor. You can also schedule an appointment with a librarian to meet in person or on Zoom.
Research Assistance Policy
Patrons can request research assistance via email, chat, or meeting with a librarian. Our purpose is to provide timely, user-centered services, resources, and information that support the education and research activities of University students, faculty, staff, and members of the community. We aim to teach and enhance information skills that are necessary for academic success and lifelong learning. We can assist throughout the research process, including identifying information needs, finding and evaluating sources, creating search strategies, and other research-related activities. We support patrons by teaching them the skills to conduct their own research, but we do not conduct research for them.
Library staff do not assist with proofreading or editing, nor do they interpret statistical, legal, or medical information. For writing support, please refer to Tutoring & Academic Services (TASC).
For archival research assistance, please refer to Special Collections.