Bossier Parish Library> Reference Home > Ask-a-Librarian
What is IM? How does it work?
IM stands for "Instant Message," refers to software like AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), which can be used to have a live conversation with a librarian. To contact us, visit our eReference page and send us an email.
If you are using this service from home and already have AOL IM installed on your home computer, just send us a message using our Screen Name: askbplref.
Who staffs this service?
This service is staffed by a librarian and part-time staff at the Reference Desk located near the Circulation Desk at the Bossier Central Library Branch.
Reference staff provide assistance in person, over the phone, and now via our website. Since this is a new service, be aware that there may be a 3-5 second delays in between chat/IM responses; however, we make every effort to provide fastest service possible to all of our patrons.
How does eReference work?
During normal library hours, if you have a research or library-related question, you can now contact us one of three ways: chat, phone, or in-person.
Also be sure to check out our research page for links to databases that can provide quick answers to common questions.
Who can use eReference?
Although anyone can use this feature, chat and email reference was primarily intended to serve the patrons of Bossier Parish Libraries.
Do you save the transcripts?
We regularly purge our archives of all old transcripts, though we do review them for evaluation and research purposes.
No IM software?
That's okay. You don't need any IM installed on your computer eReference to work. However, if you prefer not to use this service, feel free to email, call, or come by.
Having trouble getting Chat service to work?
Pop-up blockers must be turned off to use the main chat service. Consult a library staff member or computer lab assistant for assistance in turning off pop-up blockers.