How do I send my question to Library staff?

To use the service, text with the word  portlib,  followed by a space, followed by your question.  Send your text to 66746. 
For example: portlib can you recommend any resources for starting a small business?

When should I use the "Text a Librarian" service?

The service is good for quick, simple questions that can be answered with short responses (160 characters or less). More involved questions should be directed to one of our other Ask a Librarian services or via phone (207-871-1700 x725)

Or contact your local branch.

What do I need to use this service?

A cell phone with text messaging capabilities..

Is "Text a Librarian" free?

Although Portland Public Library does not charge for this service, you may see a charge for incoming text messages at the standard rate determined by your cell phone service provider. In many cases, there is a character limit on text messages (typically 140-160 characters - including spaces). Each service provider handles this situation differently. Some customers with character limits won’t see the full text of PPL’s response to their question, others may break the response up into separate text messages.

How long does it take to receive a reply?

This service is provided during the Main Library hours of operation. We will respond to your question as soon as we are able. Questions received after hours will be answered when service hours resume. If you don't receive a response to your question within 48 hours, it may be due to a telecommunications problem, so you may want to resubmit your question to one of our other Ask a Librarian services or via phone (207-871-1700). The library is not responsible for text messages that are not received by the library or delays due to telecommunications carrier or Internet connectivity delays or failures.

Anything else I should know about?

 Responses will be sent to the phone used to ask the question.
By sending a text message to our "Text a Librarian" service, you give Portland Public Library permission to reply to your text message.