VIU Library’s Research Help service provides personalized support to empower students, employees, and community members with the skills to confidently locate, evaluate, and use information effectively. Focused on fostering self-sufficiency, this service meets people where they are in their research aims, whether supporting a struggling student or helping elevate an already strong assignment.

What we help with:

• Developing topics, refining search strategies, and locating relevant sources
• Understanding how to critically assess and appropriately cite sources
• Using library tools and digital platforms, borrowing materials, and accessing specialized resources like special collections
• Referrals to writing and other supports across VIU

How to access Research Help

• Drop by our service desks at the Nanaimo and Cowichan campus libraries
• Book an in-person or online appointment in advance
• Use our live chat service from anywhere
• Send us an email
• Explore self-serve options: research guides and FAQs

How we work

Our team uses a one-desk model to efficiently triage between general questions and specialized research inquiries. Liaison librarians are available for advanced, subject-specific research support.

We aim to foster a collaborative, reciprocal approach, recognizing that every interaction is an opportunity for mutual learning. We meet people where they are and lead with an ethic of care, offering personalized support tailored to unique challenges and goals. Through a welcoming, non-graded, and affirming environment, we empower individuals to confidently navigate research challenges and foster curiosity, creativity, and adaptability.

Our service aligns with the RUSA Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference and Information Service Providers. We uphold our pledge in every interaction.