About Ask a Librarian

Ask a question online!

This service is intended to support the research and teaching mission of the University of Pittsburgh. In responding to these requests, priority will be given to University of Pittsburgh affiliated students, faculty and staff.You must have a valid email address to receive a response.

You can also receive reference assistance in person at any ULS library.

What sort of questions can I ask?

Any question you'd ask at a physical reference desk. In some cases we might give you the answer. In other cases, we'll direct you to a source, or suggest that you come into the library. We will not, however, be able to respond to medical, legal, tax-related or genealogical questions as we do not have extensive resources in these areas.

Who answers the questions?

Your question will be answered by a University of Pittsburgh librarian.

When will I receive an answer?

Typically, you will be contacted within two business days, excluding weekends, holidays, and term breaks. At that point we may either provide you with an answer, or let you know when you may expect to hear from us again if the question is more involved.