Research Services supports the educational and research functions of the university by assisting students, faculty, and staff in meeting their curricular, research, and general information needs. These services are provided in person, telephone, email or instant messenger.

When providing these research services, reference librarians attempt to educate users in library research techniques, and encourage independent use of this and other libraries. Librarians treat all requests in a serious and professional manner and do not discuss any aspect of a reference transaction with others except in a professional context.

Library users are encouraged to use the Reference Desk for direct personal assistance with their information needs. Users are assisted on a first-come first-served basis; however, at busy times, persons affiliated with UNCW are given priority over those not affiliated with UNCW and in-person requests have precedence over telephone, email and instant messenger requests.

Telephone, email and instant messenger contact information can be found by visiting the “Ask a Librarian” website: http://library.uncw.edu/web/administrative/help.html. Instant Messenger and telephone reference assistance is available during reference desk hours for brief answer types of questions. Replies to email can be expected within 24 hours.

When the Reference Desk is unstaffed, UNCW students, faculty and staff are encouraged to use the NCKnows 24/7 online reference service. The Reference Desk receives transcripts of transactions with UNCW clients, and will follow up with additional information as necessary.

Research Services also provides Reference by Appointment (RAP) and establishes ongoing assistance for graduate students through the Student Thesis Assistance @ Randall (STAR) Program.

For more information, visit the Research Services homepage.

Last Update: December 3, 2007