A system is provided for use as a source of information and for providing to a user who makes a request for information, an answer to that request. The system includes an information library that includes at least a human resource profile source that typically includes details on a number of persons to whom the request can be selectively sent and from whom an answer is obtained. The system selects the recipients of the request on the basis of the human resource profiles and can also store answers and other information to which subsequent requests can be referred as well as other selected information sources. The system includes refinements such as the optional division of a human resource profile into aspects of interest and expertise; those aspects can be further divided into areas of specific subject matter.