Library instruction for online or distance classes is more difficult than for fully "on ground" courses. If there are any class meetings on campus, faculty are strongly encouraged to spend some time in a library instruction session in the library. Please use the Classes Instruction Request form to request a library instruction session during a class period. Individual students (and faculty) who are going to be on campus can request Individual Research Consultations. Please use the Individual Research Consultation form.
Faculty who have purely online classes should contact the Distance Education Librarian and their Subject Specialist Librarian for online library instruction opportunities, which can include online videos, tutorials, and live video conferencing.
Students who need assistance should try:
- Subject Resource Guides cover print and online resources for a wide range of subjects.
- The Distance Education Librarian and Subject Specialist Librarians for help on particular topics. The earlier you contact the librarians, the better. Using email it may take a couple of exchanges to work out exactly what you need and what the best sources are. If you use email, send the librarian as much information as you can, including:
- details about the assignment (is it a 1 page report or a 10 page research paper?),
- the specific topic,
- the type of information you need (the definition of a word, a historical fact, 3 peer reviewed articles, etc.),
- and how much time you have to before you need the information.
- Reference email (library@southernct.libanswers.com) and phone (203) 392-5732. Call the Reference Desk for immediate help about selecting databases, finding specific types of information, and other questions regarding the library research process. The Reference Desk is staffed most hours the library is open. Reference email is read every weekday. There may be delays in answering email over weekends and holidays.
- Text-A-Librarian Text a message from your cell phone to (203) 490-0756. Current hours are 9:00am-4:30pm weekdays, with limited service evenings and weekends.
- Ask a question and look up previously asked questions: Ask Us!
