The Keith Leftwich Memorial Library is adding new digital services to help students use the library’s facilities more easily and effectively, library staff say.

Amanda Lemon, electronic services librarian, said she has implemented several new programs, including adding chat and text to “Ask a Librarian,” an online program where students can get help with library-related questions.

Students can call or e-mail a librarian while the library is open, with the chat or text functions available 3 to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, according to the website.

“Basically, we’re trying to make the library more helpful and accessible for students that take online courses,” she said.

Lemon said the staff also is trying to get the library website integrated with ANGEL, a web-based course management and collaboration portal.

Students have access to search the library catalog directly from ANGEL, she said, but the library is expanding on that service.

Lemon said she also added several new tutorial videos.

The tutorials include a basic introduction to the library, tips for using EbscoHost to find articles and advice on how to determine if a website is a credible source, Library Services Director Barbara King said.

Tutorials average fewer than five minutes, King said.

The new additions to the “Ask a Librarian” help system are designed with students who take online courses in mind, Lemon said.

“With the chat and text functions, students can talk to a librarian directly without having to come in or call,” she said.

“So students that don’t have time to visit the library or talk on the phone can still get the assistance they need.”

Lemon also maintains the library’s blog and Facebook page that allow students and faculty to stay up to date on library news, King said.

“All of our librarians can contribute to the blog or Facebook, and are encouraged to,” King said.

“But it’s Amanda that usually handles the weekly updates, and makes sure that the blog and social networking pages are accurate.”

For more information, visit www.occc.edu/Library and click on the question mark to “Ask a Librarian,” or visit the library during business hours.