Email Reference (AskRef)

Ok, I'm interested. So what do you mean by simple, direct questions?

AskRef will find answers to specific ready reference questions. AskRef cannot provide comprehensive or lengthy bibliographies; nor can it retrieve or hold library materials for requestors. If extensive time is required to answer a question, AskRef will contact the requestor to clarify the question, or make a referral to online and/or print sources that can be used to answer the question.

AskRef will refer requestors to relevant electronic and/or print sources to search for books, articles, and other materials required for a research paper, senior project, masters' thesis, etc.

If the question cannot be handled by AskRef, the requestor will be referred to a subject specialist.

For questions that require more than fifteen minutes of research, patrons are requested to visit the University Library's reference desk (first floor, Library North) or to schedule an appointment with a reference librarian.

This service is available only to current CSUF faculty, staff, and students through CSUF e-mail accounts. Requestors may e-mail reference questions anytime, day or night.

Please make questions clear and concise. If a question is not clear, AskRef will respond asking for more detailed and specific information. You may be asked which sources you've already consulted.

Ask A Reference Question

Questions or comments about AskRef E-mail Reference Service ? Contact Debora Richey