Ask the Library?

Who can use this service?

Anyone living or working in the Wollongong Local Government Area.
Anyone from anywhere in the world wanting information specific to Wollongong or the Illawarra area.

What questions can you ask?

The library can help you with any questions that can be answered using the collections of the library and/or the resources available on the Internet. Lengthy research questions cannot be answered via this service but we can advise you on appropriate resources you may wish to look at.

How will we send the information?

Your question will be answered initially via e-mail. We can send information by e-mail, telephone, letter or fax.

What sort of answers will you receive?

We will try our best to provide you with a direct answer to your question (with details of the sources of the information). If this is not possible we will provide you with details of appropriate resources you may inspect at our Reference and Branch libraries (in many cases it may be possible to borrow them) or refer you to an appropriate information agency or web site.

How long will it take?

We will respond to your request within 48 hours, and provide an answer as soon as practicable, but not later than within 10 days. Please note - the service operates only during the library's regular opening hours.

How much will it cost?

The service is free but there may be a charge for photocopies, fax etc.

Questions we can't answer?

Sorry, but no on-going research, lengthy newspaper searching or student assignments. If you want detailed research you can visit the library. For lengthy family history research, The Illawarra Family History Group may be able to help. They attend the Reference Library every Friday and Wednesday 10am - 12noon to assist with individual family history enquiries.

Any suggestions?

We value your suggestions regarding further development of this service. Please e-mail us with your comments.