If you can’t go to the Main Library, it can now come to you.

Students have searched MSU’s databases from their homes since the library’s catalog went online. But if a problem came up, students would have to call the Main Library for help, or physically go.

Now students don’t have to move from their computer chairs.

MSU libraries announced a new online chat service called Ask a Librarian, which enables librarians and library assistants to answer questions via the Internet regarding the library’s online catalog, databases, Web addresses, or inquiries about beginning research.

“I think it’s a step forward to broaden MSU’s influence outside of campus and possibly the state,” history senior Micah Schmidt said.

Users can go directly to the Ask a Librarian Web site or go through the Main Library’s home page, \" target=\"_blank\">eref.lib.msu.edu.

“The reason we’re doing this, from a reference perspective, is that the library has been very successful in providing indexes, databases and full-text products like Lexis Nexis,” said Steve Sowards,