Ask-A-Librarian at the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL)

Sign up for a Research Consultation!

Not sure where to start your research project/paper or which sources to use?
Sign up for a one-on-one appointment with a SSHEL librarian to learn about the best article databases, search strategies, and information sources for your project or paper. The Research Consultation Program:

• is an opportunity to meet individually with a librarian to discuss research strategies and library resources for paper assignments, research projects, class presentations, honors theses, dissertation topics, and general research needs
• allows students and other researchers and librarians to work together uninterrupted for 30 minutes to an hour.

To schedule an appointment, please contact a librarian directly about a Research Consultation or fill out the Research Consultation Request form.

About Ask-A-Librarian Service

What types of questions can I ask?
Any question you might ask at the library's information desk. Locating library materials, guidance in conducting research, looking up an address, or finding statistical information are all examples of the types of questions that can be answered using this service. For in-depth questions or other specialized assistance, please contact the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL) Information Services Desk at (217) 244-1864 or schedule a Research Consultation.

How do I submit a question via email?
Reference queries can be sent via email to sshel@library.illinois.edu. Please include your name, email address, and phone number in your message. To assist us in answering your query, please include as much information about your question as possible. Your question will be answered by a SSHEL librarian or graduate assistant. Every effort will be made to respond to your query within two working days.

What is IM and how does it work?
IM stands for "Instant Message" and refers to software, like AOL Instant Messenger, which can be used to have a live conversation with a librarian or library graduate assistant. To contact us, send a message from your IM software to our Screen Name (Buddy Name): askillinois. If you do not wish to download and install Instant Messenger on your computer, you can chat with us using the instant messenger box on the right.

Who can use this service?
IM services are intended primarily for the students, faculty, and staff of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. If you are not affiliated with the University, we are happy to answer questions concerning resources unique to the University of Illinois Libraries.

Other Information

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