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Face to face help

Getting help in the Library

Information desks

Library staff can be found at Information Desks. We work behind the scenes to prepare, provide and improve your learning resources, learning spaces, facilities and equipment. We will provide:

  • assistance at first point of contact through all modes of communication: phone, email, Live Chat, online question submission, social media and digital presence
  • referral to the most appropriate resources and services where you will receive a timely response
  • safe and secure learning spaces that are continually maintained
  • assistance with orientation around the Library sites and their spaces and facilities, as well as around the University campus
  • direction to the many ways you can obtain the learning resources you need
  • referrals to the Academic Liaison Librarians who specialise in your area of study
  • assistance with SydPay printing, scanning and photocopying queries
  • helpful, fun activities to relieve the stress of studying.

Academic Liaison Librarians (ALLs)

Our Academic Liaison Librarians work across our campuses, providing individual consultations to help you with your research, and learning and teaching goals.

Get in contact with the ALL in your area if you would like help to:

  • improve your search strategies and results
  • manage your reference library (using EndNote or other tools)
  • understand your open access publishing options
  • measure, evaluate and maximise the impact of your research
  • embed information skills development in your curriculum design
  • ensure our collection supports your curriculum.

Peer Learning Advisors (PLAs)

Peer Learning Advisors (PLAs) are University of Sydney postgraduate students who are here to:

  • help you navigate university life
  • provide study and social support
  • connect you to the experts and services you need
  • assist you with using library equipment and technology
  • share the student experience, offer peer-to-peer guidance and facilitate community in our study spaces.

PLAs provide a roving service in the Quarter, ThinkSpace, CreateSpace and Camden Commons. They wear red t-shirts and welcome you to approach them for a chat.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have died.

The University of Sydney Library acknowledges that its facilities sit on the ancestral lands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who have for thousands of generations exchanged knowledge for the benefit of all. Learn more