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Reference Services
Reference Collection

Scribner Library's reference resources include encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, bibliographies, handbooks, biographies, indexes, and abstracts - both in print and electronic formats. Many recent resources are available only in electronic formats. These resources are arranged by subject through the “Resources by Subject or Topic” pages and by alphabetical order through "Electronic Resources A-Z". Encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other general electronic and online sources are available through the General Research & Reference subject page.

The extensive book collection contains general and subject-specific works, and is located on the 1st floor of the library, behind the reference desk. Use the Lucy2 Library Catalog to search for books. To find reference books, click the “Set limits” button on the search page and set the location to "Reference". You can discover what has recently been added to the collection by checking the New books, music and film list (in the "Location" menu, select "Reference Collection -- 1st floor").

Selected Online Reference sources

For indexes/directories of online reference resources, try these sites:

Reference Databases:

  • Bartleby.com - Reference Over twenty classic and contemporary reference works. Search individually or simultaneously.
  • XreferOver fifty reference works searchable by topic (not individual work).

Reference/Information Desk

Scribner Library provides in-depth reference and research-support services for students and faculty at Skidmore College. The library offers one-on-one consultation at the reference desk, as well as the opportunity to make individual appointments with subject librarians.

The Reference Desk is located in the center of the first floor of the Library (See map below). It is the starting point for anyone with questions about how to use the library, how to find information on a specific topic and develop search strategies, or for anyone looking for factual information. Contact the reference desk by phone at x5503 (518-580-5503) or via Instant Messaging (IM screen name SkidRef; AOL, MSN, Yahoo) during normal desk hours. For subject-specific questions, feel free to contact a subject specialist. Any complex or urgent questions should be addressed in-person at the reference desk.

Reference Desk hours for Fall 2007:

HOURS
Monday - Thursday

10:00 am - 5:30 pm
6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Friday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday (beginning Nov. 3) 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Sunday 

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
6:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Special Collections Assistance
Faculty, students and staff who need to access Special Collections materials or who need assistance in research pertaining to the College may either visit the Pohndorff Special Collections Reading Room during its open hours, or may make an appointment with Wendy Anthony, Special Collections Associate (x5509).

HOURS
Monday - Thursday
10:00 am - 12:00 noon
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Friday

10:00 am - 12:00 noon
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Visual Resources Reference Assistance
The Visual Resources Room on the northeast end of the second floor is available for those requiring assistance in finding or using art information sources or slides. There is a small collection of reference books on Permanent Art Reserve, as well as four networked computers outside the room. Assistance is provided by David Seiler, Visual Resources Director, (dseiler or x5519).

HOURS
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 12 noon
1:00 pm - 4:30 pm

 

Andy Ashton
aashton@skidmore.edu
Lucy Scribner Library, Skidmore College
http://www.skidmore.edu/library/reference/index.htm
Last updated: August 31, 2007 (EP)