What is Virtual Reference?

Virtual reference is a real-time text chat service that allows users to interact with librarians.

Who Provides Virtual Reference Service?

Yale’s social science librarians provide the virtual reference service. Each librarian is responsible for one or more subject areas.

What Kinds of Questions Can Be Asked?

Any question related to the social sciences can be asked. Topic areas include: Anthropology, Business & Management, Economics, Education, Data & Statistics, Gender Studies, Government Information, International Affairs, Political Science, Psychology, Public Opinion and Sociology.

How Does Virtual Reference Work?

Virtual reference works through an instant messaging (IM) system. In such a system, the user and librarian communicate via text.

Do I Need Special Software to Use Virtual Reference?

IM software is required. Aim, GTalk, and Yahoo! Messenger are the preferred IM software for virtual reference.

How Do I Start a Virtual Reference Session?

Starting a virtual reference session is simple. Open up your IM software and send your question to YaleSSLRef.

When is Virtual Reference Available?

Virtual reference is available during the following times:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday – 9:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday – 9:00am-7:45pm
Saturday – 1:00pm-4:45pm