askON Chat Service

Vaughan Public Libraries has been invited to participate in askON's pilot project, an interactive information and research service for Ontarians offered by public libraries in the province. We answer questions on a wide range of subjects. Let us use our skills and experience to help you find better information than you could on your own.

The askON chat service is jointly staffed by Ontario public libraries. We accept questions from users of other Ontario libraries and from individuals outside Ontario but we may, depending on the question and staff availability, refer you to your local library.

There is a short survey at the end of your chat session. Please provide us with your feedback so that we can enhance, expand and improve the service.

Service hours

Chat with askON staff Monday through Thursday, from 12:30pm-8:30pm and Friday and Saturday 12:30pm-4:30pm. askON will be closed on Sundays, regular holidays and when public libraries are normally closed. When the service is closed you can elect to send an email message to the library.

Holiday Closures:
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
New Year's Day

Service Level

Chat reference sessions often take 10-15 minutes. In certain circumstances, you may be referred to another institution, source or contact who has the required local expertise, but we will try to provide you with information to get you started. Certain restrictions will apply to licensed databases for non-library card holders.

Privacy

askON collects only the minimum amount of information from visitors necessary to provide effective service. At the end of your chat you can print a transcript of your session or request it by email. Your email address is not stored and will not be used for any other purpose.

Learn more at askON.ca.