This guide is intended to provide instruction and guidance for staff working at the main service desk in Mullins Library. This desk is the primary, and often, sole, point of contact for many students, faculty, staff, and other patrons of the university libraries. Therefore, a basic knowledge of a broad range of topics is necessary at this desk. Patrons should expect to get general guidance on using the library's resources, on finding materials here in the building or in other branch libraries, and when necessary, referrals to a subject specialist for more in-depth assistance.

The library also provides virtual research assistance in the form of email, text, or live chat. Staff at the research assistance desk will be trained to respond to email or text messages using the appropriate software. Live chat at this time is scheduled to be handled by librarians off-desk.

Hopefully, this guide will guide staff doing training of new staff, and will provide a backup for current staff working who may need to refer to best practices.