Smith College students, faculty, and staff can text brief questions to the Smith College Libraries!

Send your question to 413-570-0LIB (0542). We'll respond to texts when the reference desk is open: Mon.-Fri. 9 am - 4 pm; Sun. 1-4 pm Texts sent after the desk is closed will be answered when the desk reopens. See below for more information. Other help options include: email and chat.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I send a text message?

Send a text message any time. Note: We will respond to texts when the reference desk is open. See hours at top of page.

Texts sent after the desk is closed will be answered when the desk reopens.

Some text messages may be delayed or lost. If you don’t receive a response, please contact the reference desk by email (neilref@smith.edu) or phone (413) 585-2960.

What kind of questions can I ask?

This service is intended to answer questions that require brief answers (160 characters or less).

Some examples:
What time does Neilson close today?
Does Smith have a copy of Pride and Prejudice?

We may ask for your email to follow-up on more in-depth questions.

Who can use this service?

This service is intended for the students, faculty, and staff of Smith College. If you are not affiliated with Smith, use this service only if your question concerns Smith or some unique resource of the Smith College Libraries.

Does this service cost anything?

The Smith College Libraries does not charge for this service, but charges from your cell phone provider may apply. These charges vary among plans and among telephone providers.

The library does not take any responsibility for any charges your mobile phone provider may assess you for sending or receiving messages while using this service.