Libraries are often a person’s first stop in the search for answers. We can point you to both physical and digital resources that cover topics at a variety of levels.

But sometimes getting to the library may not be possible, or you want to use the resources from a different county. Thankfully, librarians think of everything, and that’s where “Ask a Librarian” comes in!

Ask a Librarian is the perfect service for those that need help locating resources or getting information from databases which are difficult to access. Are you trying to find an ancestor’s obituary from another county? Libraries can access genealogy databases that would otherwise require a subscription. Is that important statistic hidden behind a paywall? Check with your library, and we’ll send you a copy!

So, what is this service and how can you use it?

Ask a Librarian is available statewide and provides virtual reference services to all Florida residents. With this service you are able to ask any question through text message, email or live instant chat. The email service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and your questions will be put into a queue for the next available librarian.

Using the email system also allows for the upload of any files relevant to your question. For those that wish to use the text and live chat services, librarians are available 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday (all Eastern time).

So how do you access this service?…