Instant Messaging Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Messaging Reference?
The Instant Messaging Reference service allows SCU students, faculty and staff to ask an SCU librarian basic questions about library services and resources, such as looking up a book or journal. It's a live service provided by SCU librarians.
Who can use this service?
The service is available to current students, faculty, and staff of SCU.
What types of questions will be answered?
  • A specific piece of information (e.g., a fact, a date, spelling of a name)
  • Looking up books, journals, articles, etc., in our collection
  • Basic suggestions on an appropriate electronic or print resource to find information for your project or research paper
  • Questions about library resources and services
Who answers the questions?
Your questions will be answered by SCU librarians.
How is my privacy or anonymity protected?
Privacy Statement: This privacy statement explains what we do with the personal information collected from our patrons when they use the Instant Message reference service. More specifically, it explains what personal information is collected, how it is used, and how long it is kept

We will not share your IM screen name or use it for other purposes except to provide you with this service.

The transcripts of all IM reference sessions (including screen names) are temporarily stored on our server. These transcripts are used by supervising librarians for quality control. All transcripts are permanently deleted from the system after 30 days.

Is there any software required to use Instant Messaging Reference?
No. All you need is a free screen name from one of the IM service providers we use (AIM, Yahoo, ICQ or MSN), and an internet connection fast enough to handle IM communications. The IM Reference service does not require any installation or configuration on your part; all you need is to send us an IM.
How do I get an IM screen name?
Simply register with any one of the IM service providers we use (they're all free):
How do I send an instant message without downloading the full IM client software (for example, if I'm using a public computer)?
All of the IM services provide web interfaces that do not require client software: