Library Live Chat

Our Live Chat service allows you to interact with a Library staff member in real-time.

You can ask questions about finding resources, using library services, understanding citations, or any other library-related topic. Library staff can guide you through the process of locating specific books, articles, or other materials. They can also help you navigate the library's website and online resources.

What Can I ask?

  • Finding Sources: How do I find peer-reviewed articles? or What databases should I use for my research?
  • Understanding Research: What does it mean for a source to be peer-reviewed? or How do I cite sources in APA 7?
  • Research Strategies: My research topic is too broad. How can I narrow it down? or I'm having trouble finding information on my topic. What search terms should I use? 
  • Specific Source Types: How can I find primary sources? or Where can I find statistical data for my research?
  • Off-Campus Access: I'm having trouble accessing a database from home. What should I do?
  • Library Services: Locating Materials: Do you have this book in the library? or How can I borrow this item?
  • Navigating the Library Website: Where can I find the Library's online catalog? or How do I access my Library account?
  • General Library Information: What are the Library's hours? or Where is the Writing Center located?

Using Chat

  • No software installation is required 
  • Can be accessed on a PC, Mac and all mobile devices
  • Works in all browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Edge)

General questions from users not affiliated with Mohawk College will also be answered, however only current students, faculty, and staff have access to licensed databases and online resources.

  • The Live Chat service is intended to answer brief questions
  • Be specific about what information you need when starting a chat session
  • If your question is too complex, staff may ask you to continue the conversation via email, phone, or Zoom or to book a research appointment

We use Libraryh3lp software for our chat service, which collects the complete conversation between you and Library staff as well as any documentation sent to you during the transaction. Your IP address, name and email may also be recorded depending on the chat method you have selected.

We will not disclose any personal data we collect from you to any party in a manner that would identify you. We save a copy of each complete transaction to assist with follow-up inquiries and to collect chat usage statistics.

Harassment of any type will not be tolerated. If you are being abusive to staff, your access to the service will be blocked.

Text Option

Quick Info questions can be sent via text message.

  289-277-0114

Note: Regular carrier rates apply. Phone numbers are kept confidential.

Chat Feedback

Have you used our Chat Service? If so, please consider giving us some feedback by completing this short survey.