As the Washington State Library adjusts to recent budget reductions which required a reduction in hours open to the public, we continue to provide excellent service.  As a 21^st century library, we  provide service to information seekers using tools of the online world such as talking with a reference librarian through chat. Questions come into our Washington State Library specific “Ask a Librarian” page via email or live online chat every day and our reference librarians are cracker jacks at finding just the information you seek. These questions range in scope from government research to interesting stories found in newspapers. In the most recent quarter 261 questions were answered via live chat and 1178 via email. Each of these patrons received their answer from a distance, without ever leaving their home or workplace.

Here are just a few of the comments received from our happy customers.

 I received the documents I requested via email in less than 1 hour. I couldn’t ask for better service.

 I love communicating by e-mail and appreciate your fast service. 

 I love this site. I have not needed to use it often but have always gotten the information I asked for. It’s fast, easy & the librarians are always knowledgeable & polite. Love, love, love it! 

 I was extremely pleased with the quick, professional response, and the spot-on answer to my question. Thanks to Mary Schaff and everyone else responsible for this important service.

 THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! You’ve been a tremendous help, and I can’t thank you enough. Quick and courteous help. Thank you so much!

 I thank you so much for your timely and professional help with my search your service is valuable and appreciated Thank you.

 The Washington State Library is always exceptionally helpful and responsive.

 Do you work for a government agency? We would love to expand this service to additional governmental and quasi-governmental agencies. If you are interested in placing an Ask a Librarian chat widget on your website (just like the picture)  contact Crystal Lentz at [email protected].

As part of the Help Center we also provide assistance to individuals using Access Washington who need assistance.

Feeling frustrated?  Google isn’t giving you the information you need? Remember, just Ask a Librarian.