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Lansing, IL 60438-2226
(708) 474-2447
support@lansingpl.org

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Instant Message (IM) Information Page

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Click on a question to view the answer!

  1. What is Instant Messaging?
  2. How do I Instant Message?
  3. Where can I download an Instant Messaging Program?
  4. What is a Buddy List or Contacts List?
  5. What is the Library's messaging name?
  6. Will I be connected to a live person?
  7. Will I need to wait for a response?
  8. What types of questions can I ask?
  9. When is this available?

1. What is Instant Messaging?

(IM) - a text-based computer conference over the Internet between two or more people who must be online at the same time. When you send an IM the receiver is instantly notified that she/he has a message.

2. How do I Instant Message?

Popular IM services include AOL's Instant Messenger (AIM), AOL's ICQ, Microsoft's MSN Messenger and Yahoo!

3. Where can I download an Instant Messaging Program?

If you do not already have a messaging software installed from AIM/AOL, MSN, or Yahoo! Free downloads are available. Each of these services are free, and do not require an additional paid subscription.

4. What is a Buddy List or Contacts List?

A Buddy List is a collection of screen names in an Instant Messenger (IM) program.

The term Buddy List is used in AOL Instant Messenger and Y! Messenger, whereas the term Contact List is used in MSN Messenger.

The Buddy List is generally a window that has a list of "screen names" that represent actual other people. Double-clicking on any name will open an Instant Message session and allow you to talk with the other people. Usually, if somebody shows up in your buddy list, your screen name will show up in theirs. [source wikipedia]

The buddy list can also show if your "buddies" are available to receive messages.

5. What is the Library's messaging name?

Our individual instant messaging names have been replaced by the Ask Away Illinois service. Ask Away Illinois canceled March 2011.

6. Will I be connected to a live person?

Yes! You will be connected to a librarian who assists us in answering incoming questions.

7. Will I need to wait for a response?

IM questions are taken in a first-come, first-served order.
Please keep in mind that the staff who reply to IM questions need a few moments to read your question and then search for an answer.

Alternatively, you are welcome to contact us by email, call the Library at 708-474-2447, or visit for assistance.

8. What types of questions can I ask?

You can ask Reader's Advisory questions such as "Can you recommend a good romance book for a teen?" 

You can ask about upcoming programs & events.  

You can ask simple Reference questions such as "What were last night's winning lottery numbers?" "What is the phone number for ---- (a local business)?"

We can also handle more difficult Reference questions such as "Do you have a photo of army ants?" or "What is the origin of pi?"

We can direct you toward the appropriate print and online resources to answer your questions. 
We cannot provide answers for homework. 

9. When is this available?

Any time!

AskAway is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year including holidays!

Ask Away librarians are available to answer questions anytime. Just click the link or AskAway logo to get started.