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Appointments

Reserve an appointment to work one-on-one with a librarian.

Phillips Library logo. Image of a search box with the text "Research Apppintments"

How We Can Help

There are lots of reasons to make an appointment with a librarian.

Librarians are experts at finding quality information on the web and in library databases.

You’re having trouble finding the information you need.
  • Your results aren’t quite the right topic.
  • Your results don’t fit the criteria your teacher provided.
  • You’ve found some sources, but you’re having trouble finding more.
  • It feels like what you need doesn’t exist.
You’re not sure how to start your research.
  • You’re not sure where to look.
  • You aren't quite sure how to phrase your research question.
  • You want to brainstorm with a professional about what types of sources might be useful for your topic.
You're having trouble identifying whether a source might be useful to you.
  • You want to learn how to sort through your search results.
  • You need help determining whether something is a primary or secondary source.
  • You are overwhelmed when you search.
You’re not sure if a source is reliable.
  • You need help evaluating the trustworthiness of a source.
  • You want to improve your skills at evaluating sources.
  • You want to find a higher quality source than what you found on your own.
You’re not sure how to navigate a resource.
  • You need help using government websites like Census.gov.
  • You want guidance on how to use library databases.
 

Consult with a Librarian

  1. Log in to Academic SupportNet using your Okta credentials (your AU username without the @aurora.edu and password). If this is your first time using this system, you will be prompted to set up an account.
  2. Select the "Research with a Librarian" calendar from the dropdown list of calendars, and then click a time slot that works for you.
  3. Adjust the length to 60 minutes if you need more time. Appointments can be reserved for 30 or 60 minutes.
  4. Select whether you would like to meet over Zoom or in person at Phillips Library.
  5. Click "Create Appointment."

Please note that librarians are not able to help with writing, editing, or citations. For help with those topics, please make an appointment with a writing tutor on a different schedule.

Make an Appointment Button

Research Appointment Policies

Making Appointments
  • Appointments can be scheduled up to two weeks in advance and as late as 60 minutes prior to the appointment start time. If the 30-minute window has passed but the time is unscheduled, you may still be able to meet with a librarian. Ask at the front desk or by text, phone, or chat. 
  • Each account is limited to 60 minutes of research appointments per day.
Missing and Canceling Appointments
  • Cancellations are permitted up to 1 hour in advance of your appointment.
  • Librarians will wait 10 minutes for their appointment to join or show up. If you exceed that time, you will forfeit your appointment.
  • Failing to attend or cancel your appointments in advance will result in a no-show. After your second no-show, your account will be automatically disabled for the remainder of the semester.

Workshops and Research Events

Want to learn more about searching but don't have a specific question in mind? Library workshops and research events might be a good fit. Learn more at the link below.