The true engine of the University of Iowa Libraries is its people. You can find an all-star staff of friendly, knowledgeable, and resourceful people at all seven of our libraries.

Right now, we’re going to focus on two places you can go for assistance: the Just Ask Desk in the Main Library and the live chat feature on our website. You’ll find the desk in the Learning Commons on the first floor, just across from the Food for Thought Café and right next to the Service Desk. And don’t forget that we have a Just Ask FAQ page where librarians give commonly requested information.

If you’re wondering what exactly you can ask, we have some examples to get you started.

1. Beginning your research

• My instructor just gave me this prompt. How can I build the groundwork for a strong argument?
• I found this article online. Is this a credible source for my research?

Academic writing is its own skill, and one you’ll continue to develop throughout your time at the university. When an instructor hands you a new assignment, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start, especially if the prompt contains specific terms like “peer-reviewed articles,” “evidence-based practices,” or “market research reports.” A librarian can guide you toward the types of materials that will form the strongest foundation for an argument. They can also point out clues and characteristics that might make a particular source less than credible. 

2. Navigating Libraries resources

• I’m looking for information on [subject]. Where should I start?
• InfoHawk+ is giving me a huge pool of results. How can I sort through them?
• How can I borrow a copy of this book through Interlibrary Loan?

One of the major advantages of a campus institution like the UI Libraries can also be among its biggest challenges: we have access to a lot of information. Nobody expects you to have a perfect copy of the Libraries’ catalog uploaded to your brain—and with millions of resources available across seven libraries, we’d be amazed if you did. Our librarians don’t have the collections memorized either, but they know how to navigate them, and they’re more than happy to pass that knowledge on.

That includes knowledge of our search engine and databases. InfoHawk+ is an amazing resource-finding tool, but it takes most users some practice to access its full potential. This blog can help you get started, but if you’d like the help of a librarian to narrow your results, head over to the Just Ask desk and request a tutorial.

3. Libraries spaces, tools, and more

• I’m not sure how to handle in-text citations in my paper. Can you help me make sense of them?
• How can I plan visit to the Special Collections and Archives?
• Where can I find a scanner?

We really mean it when we say “anything.” A librarian can help you locate items or services, format citations for that paper, and direct you to subject-matter experts. If you ask a question they can’t answer, they’ll help you find someone who can. After all, their investment in student success is what led them to this career—at one time they were students themselves, and a librarian pointed them in the right direction.

Looking to plan a visit? For the latest hours at all UI Libraries locations, check out lib.uiowa.edu/hours/