Reference
Services
Walk-in Reference.* The reference desk is
where most people begin their library research. A professional librarian
can be found at the reference desk from 9-5 during the day, and some
evening and weekend hours (Mon.- Thurs. until 9 p.m., Sat. 12-4, Sun.
2-6).
* In addition
to traditional walk-in reference, a number of other services are provided
by the Reference Team.
Ask
a Librarian. This service provides reference service
by telephone, e-mail, and online chat when it is not possible or convenient
to come to the library. These services are popular with those who
are using our extensive electronic resources from home or office.
In-depth consultation. For in-depth research
it is possible to schedule appointments with one of our subject specialists.
Subject specialists include all members of the Reference Team,
as well as Subject Selectors from other parts of the libraries.
If you know the subject specialist in your area, you may make an appointment
directly by phone or e-mail. If you are uncertain who to ask, inquire
at the Reference Desk before making an appointment.
Other
Services of the Central Reading Room
--Information Desk. The Information Desk
is staffed all hours the library is open. The staff at this desk can
answer basic questions about such things as library hours and how
to use the online
catalog (STARS). In addition, this desk is the service point for
the Microforms
Collection and Current Periodicals.
--Instruction and
Orientation Services. Tape tours of the Melville
Library are available at the Information Desk. The Central Reading
Room houses two computer classrooms, which are administered by the
Head of Library Instruction. Inquiries about instructional programs
can be made at the Reference Desk.
--Current Periodicals, Magazines, and Newspapers are
located in the center of the room. Service for this area are provided
at the Information Desk.
--Disability Support Services Resource Room.
Access to a specially equipped classroom with equipment for Stony Brook students
is provided at the Reference
Desk.
--Access to Specialized Collections. The
Reference Desk is usually the first point of contact for users of
specialized collections in the libraries. These include Government
Information, Maps,
Microforms,
the Science
and Engineering Library, and the
other branch libraries. If a question about these collections
cannot be answered at the Reference Desk, an appointment can be made
with a specialist. |
