Pittwater Library

The following access keys are available throughout the Pittwater Council site. "m" will take you to the main content, "n" will take you to the site navigation, "s" will take you to the site search form and "t" will take you to the top of the page.

Main Content

Ask a librarian

Ask a Librarian is a service offered by Mona Vale Library using RefTracker. This service is open to everyone and is particularly useful for homework and school projects. The service is free of charge, but some printing costs may apply.

What is RefTracker?

RefTracker is an Ask a Librarian service available within the library and from home. It includes a searchable database of previously asked questions so you can check if anyone has looked for the same information. Alternatively, you can submit a question to the library and you will receive a response within 3 working days.

How do I get access to this service?

RefTracker can be accessed by clicking on Ask a Librarian. You can also make a request by filling out an Information Request form at the library. Please ask the staff at the service desk.

How can I find out if my answer is already there?

  1. When you are in RefTracker click on Search the knowledge base
  2. Type in your keyword(s) eg. cater and click search
  3. If your keyword appears in any items held in the knowledge base the results will appear. To select it simply click on the question that best fits your search criteria
  4. If you want to ask another question click on Search the knowledge base above and type your next query
  5. If there are no results for your query then our Reference Librarian can help with your research. Just ask a new question.

Hint: Try using an * truncation eg. cater* to retrieve catering, caterers or caters

How do I ask a new question?

  1. If you are still in RefTracker, click on Ask new question, otherwise follow the instructions above to open the database first
  2. Fill out the online form
  3. Click submit to send your question to the Reference Librarian
  4. Alternatively fill out an Information Request Form held at the Service Desk
  5. A response will be emailed to you and may include details of material held within the library, attachments, or links to websites directly answering your query