Libraries
IQuery Instant Message Information Service
A search engine might find millions of web pages, but it won't find most scholarly journals or books. And which page has your answer? How do you know the information is right, comprehensive, current? What if your answer is on a site that requires a fee? We know where to find your answers fast, we have access to premium databases, and it's always free.
For more information about all the ways we can answer your questions, please see our Ask A Question page.
How to IM a Librarian
Add Arlington Public Library's screen name to your Buddy List (AIM), Contacts List (MSN), or Friends List (Yahoo!) and instant message a librarian with your questions.
| IM Service | Arlington Library's Screen Name | |
|---|---|---|
 | AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) | iqueryarlib |
 | iChat (Mac) | iqueryarlib (AIM Account) |
 | MSN Messenger | |
 | Yahoo! Messenger | iqueryarlib |
Web-Based Instant Messaging
You can use IQuery without installing IM software on any computer with Internet access. Use your AIM, MSN, or Yahoo! account with these web-based services:
| IM Service | Arlington Library's Screen Name | |
|---|---|---|
| AIM Express | iqueryarlib |
| MSN Web Messenger | |
| Yahoo! Web Messenger | iqueryarlib |
Hours of Service
IQuery IM reference service is available seven days a week during the following hours:
- Sunday: 1 pm-9 pm
- Monday-Thursday: 9 am-9 pm
- Friday-Saturday: 9 am-5 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of questions can a librarian answer?
Requests for factual information.
Policy and procedural questions.
In general, questions that can be answered by Who, What, When, Where, or How.
Are there questions a librarian cannot answer?
We cannot answer complex questions that require us to do additional research to narrow or refine the request, but we can suggest resources for your own further research. We cannot answer legal, medical, or other types of questions requiring professional interpretation. We cannot answer questions about your library customer account.
What about privacy?
Arlington Public Library is committed to protecting customer privacy. You do not need to identify yourself to use the service. No information collected via IQuery sessions will be shared with any third party, and any information collected will be routinely purged.
