Ask a Librarian

Ask a Librarian is the general contact point for UW-Madison Libraries. Staff provide assistance with research processes, and answers questions about library systems and services. By training users in a wide variety of tools and techniques, and facilitating connections with subject experts, we support the teaching and research endeavors of UW-Madison.

Choose what works for you

Fall Hours (September 4 – December 19)

  • Sunday: 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday: Offline

Alternate Fall Hours

  • Thursday, December 19: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Early Winter Interim Hours (December 20 – January 1)

  • Offline

January Interim Hours (January 2 – 20)

  • Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday – Sunday: Offline
  • January 20: Offline

Spring Semester Hours (January 21 – May 9)

  • Sunday: 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday: Offline

Call 608-262-3193 when College Library or Memorial Library are open (see hours). Voicemail will receive a response within 24 hours.

Text 608-729-7886 when Ask a Librarian Chat service is available. After-hours texts receive a response when Ask a Librarian Chat is available again.

At College Library – Get help at the first floor desk Mon to Fri 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sat & Sun 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and

At other Library Locations – get help at service desks during the libraries’ open hours.

Schedule a Consultation to select a library and a time. Include a reason for the consultation so we can match you with an expert.

Please allow 24 hours for a reply. For immediate assistance, use Chat, Call/Text, or Walk-up

Fill out the Ask a Librarian Contact Form to receive an email reply within 24 hours.

Chat transcripts and emails are saved. They are used by UW-Madison Libraries to improve services.