Purchase College Library has a text message reference service. You can send the Library questions via text message (SMS), and a librarian or library staff member will text you back with an answer!
How do I use Text a Librarian?
Just follow three simple steps:
- Text your question to (914) 873-1711*
- A librarian will respond as soon as possible!
- Save us in your contacts and text us when you’re on the go.
*This number is for text only. To call the Library, dial (914) 251-6401.
When can I text the Library?
The text reference service will be available during the following hours:
Fall & Spring Semester Text a Librarian Hours
Monday-Thursday: 10:00am - 10:00pm
Friday: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Winter Intersession & Summer Text a Librarian Hours
Monday- Friday: 10:00am - 4:45pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Text us any time day or night and you'll receive an answer as quickly as possible, generally within 10 minutes during the regular service hours listed above. If you text us afterhours, your question will be answered when the next shift begins.
If the Library is closed for a holiday, weekend, event, or weather emergency, Text a Librarian will generally not be available. See Library Hours for more info. If you need assistance when the Library is closed, please use the Chat 24/7 service.
How much does it cost?
The Library doesn’t charge a fee for using Text a Librarian; however, standard messaging and data charges from your cell phone service provider may apply.
Who is answering my texts?
Text a Librarian is staffed by reference librarians and circulation supervisors who work at Purchase College Library. We are real people (not robots or A.I.) Unlike the 24/7 Chat service, Text a Librarian is staffed locally by people who work at Purchase, not at other libraries. So go ahead and text Purchase College Library... we're always happy to help!
How do keywords work?
Keywords are a great way to get fast info about the Library. Send a single Keyword or Key phrase in the body of your text, and you'll get an automated reply for frequently asked questions. For example, you could text us keywords like...
"HOURS" to get a text showing the library's hours of operation
"WIFI" to learn how to log in to the wireless internet in the library
See this list of all keywords.
