research library reference desk

What does a reference librarian do?

Would you make a good reference librarian? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Reference Librarian?

A reference librarian assists library patrons with their information needs and research inquiries. Typically stationed at a reference desk, these librarians are skilled in conducting thorough searches across a wide range of resources, both print and electronic, to help users find relevant and accurate information. Reference librarians provide guidance on using library catalogs, databases, and other research tools, offering assistance in navigating complex information landscapes.

Moreover, reference librarians excel in providing personalized assistance, guiding patrons through the research process, and helping them formulate effective search strategies. They are often knowledgeable about various subject areas, and their expertise extends to evaluating information sources for reliability and relevance. In addition to direct one-on-one interactions with patrons, reference librarians may also contribute to the development of library programming, workshops, and instructional materials to enhance information literacy skills among users.

What does a Reference Librarian do?

Duties and Responsibilities Reference librarians have diverse duties and responsibilities centered around providing assistance to library patrons in their information-seeking endeavors. Here are some common duties and responsibilities associated with the role:

• Patron Assistance: Engage in reference interviews to understand patrons' information needs and help them formulate effective research questions. Provide guidance on using library catalogs, databases, and other research tools to locate relevant information.
• Information Retrieval: Possess strong research skills to efficiently locate and retrieve information from various sources, both print and digital. Navigate and utilize online databases, academic journals, and other electronic resources to fulfill patron requests.
• Reference Materials Management: Contribute to the selection and maintenance of reference materials, ensuring the collection is current, relevant, and accessible. Regularly review and update reference materials, removing outdated or obsolete resources.
• Information Literacy Instruction: Conduct information literacy workshops to educate patrons on research strategies, source evaluation, and effective use of library resources. Provide one-on-one instruction to patrons on using library tools and developing research skills.
• Community Outreach: Collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement library programs, events, and exhibits to engage the community and promote information literacy. Establish partnerships with local organizations and educational institutions to extend library services to a broader audience.
• Reference Desk Coverage: Be available to assist patrons during scheduled reference desk hours, offering in-person, phone, and online reference services. Address and resolve any issues or challenges faced by patrons in accessing information resources.
• Stay Informed: Stay current with developments in library science, information technology, and relevant subject areas through continuous learning and professional development.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with other library departments, such as cataloging and acquisitions, to ensure seamless library operations. Work collaboratively with colleagues on library projects and initiatives.
• Reference Desk Records: Keep accurate records of reference transactions, user inquiries, and frequently requested materials to inform collection development and improve services.
• Adaptability: Embrace and adapt to new technologies and tools that enhance reference services and improve the patron experience.

Types of Reference Librarians Reference librarians may specialize in various areas based on their expertise and the specific needs of the library or community they serve. Here are some common types of reference librarians and their specializations:

• Law Librarians : Working in law libraries or libraries with legal collections, these librarians provide assistance with legal research, help patrons navigate legal databases, and offer guidance on legal reference materials.
• Health Sciences Librarians : Librarians specializing in medical or health sciences assist patrons with medical research, access to healthcare literature, and information on health-related topics. They may work in hospitals, medical schools, or health sciences libraries.
• Youth Services Librarians : Focused on serving children and young adults, these librarians support literacy initiatives, organize educational programs, and assist young patrons in finding age-appropriate materials.
• Digital Reference Librarians: Specializing in online and digital resources, these librarians assist patrons with navigating electronic databases, accessing e-books, and utilizing online reference materials. They may also provide virtual reference services through email, chat, or video conferencing.
• Government Documents Librarians: Librarians specializing in government documents help patrons access and navigate local, state, and federal government publications. They assist in locating and interpreting government information for research purposes.
• Business Reference Librarians: Focused on business and economic information, these librarians assist patrons in researching market trends, industry reports, and business-related topics. They may work in academic, public, or corporate libraries.
• Humanities Librarians: Specializing in the humanities, including literature, philosophy, history, and the arts, these librarians support patrons in accessing and interpreting resources related to cultural and humanistic studies.
• Special Collections Librarians: Librarians managing special collections, archives, or rare materials provide expertise in preserving and granting access to unique and valuable resources, such as rare books, manuscripts, and historical documents.

What is the workplace of a Reference Librarian like?

The workplace of a reference librarian can vary depending on the type of library and its size. Reference librarians may be employed in academic libraries, public libraries, special libraries, or other information institutions. In larger academic or public libraries, a reference librarian may spend a significant portion of their time at a designated reference desk, providing direct assistance to patrons with research inquiries. This desk is often centrally located to ensure accessibility, and librarians may engage with a diverse range of individuals seeking assistance.

Beyond the reference desk, reference librarians also work in offices or workspaces where they conduct research, respond to email or online inquiries, and develop instructional materials for information literacy programs. They collaborate with colleagues, including other librarians and staff from different departments, to enhance library services, organize events, and contribute to collection development. Additionally, reference librarians may participate in professional development activities, attend conferences, and stay abreast of new technologies and information resources to better serve patrons.

In the context of smaller libraries or those in community settings, reference librarians might have a broader range of responsibilities. They may be involved in collection development, program planning, and outreach efforts, allowing for a more versatile and community-engaged role. The workplace environment emphasizes adaptability, as reference librarians need to be ready to assist patrons with a diverse array of information needs, from general inquiries to specialized research topics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Library related careers and degrees.

• Academic Librarian
• Cataloging Librarian
• Community Librarian
• Digital Archivist
• Health Sciences Librarian
• Law Librarian
• Library Assistant
• Music Librarian
• Outreach Librarian
• Public Librarian
• Reference Librarian
• School Librarian
• Technical Services Librarian
• Youth Services Librarian
• Library and Archives Assisting
• Library Science

Continue reading

College & Research Libraries News  ( C&RL News ) is the official newsmagazine and publication of record of the Association of College & Research Libraries,  providing articles on the latest trends and practices affecting academic and research libraries.

C&RL News  became an online-only publication beginning with the January 2022 issue.

C&RL News  Reader Survey

Give us your feedback in the 2024  C&RL News   reader survey ! The survey asks a series of questions today to gather your thoughts on the contents and presentation of the magazine and should only take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback and suggestions for  C&RL News , we greatly appreciate and value your input.

Associate Library Director Trinity University

ALA JobLIST

Advertising Information

• Preparing great speeches: A 10-step approach (214355 views)
• The American Civil War: A collection of free online primary sources (199509 views)
• 2018 top trends in academic libraries: A review of the trends and issues affecting academic libraries in higher education (77635 views)

ACRL College & Research Libraries News

College & Research Libraries News

Reference service: past, present, and future.

By Barbara J. Ford Associate Library Director Trinity University

History and background

In 1876 Samuel Green, a public librarian, stated in American Library Journal that “personal intercourse and relations between librarians and readers are useful in all libraries.” 1 This was the first explicit proposal for a program of personal assistance to readers. Initially, personal assistance was regarded as primarily useful to create a better impression on the library’s users. 2 Objections to personal assistance were raised by librarians skeptical of answering frivolous questions or who felt a reliance on catalogs and book lists by users was more appropriate, and that librarians should spend their time developing such tools rather than personally assisting users. A growing interest in the educational role of the library in the academic setting brought additional emphasis to assistance to readers. Melvil Dewey at Columbia College acted on his belief that personal assistance was central, not peripheral, to library service and established a reference department in the 1880s with personnel assigned to assist readers. By 1891 the term “reference work” replaced other less specific terms, an article on reference work was published in Library Journal , and the term appeared for the first time in the index to that journal.

By the early 1900s, the information or reference desk was a well-established feature in large libraries of America. The principal function of reference librarians was explaining use of the bibliographic apparatus; close knowledge of reference books and special competence in preparation of bibliographies were seen as distinctive professional accomplishments of reference librarians. Some writers spoke of the chief art of the desk assistant or reference librarian as the ability to know by long experience what was actually wanted by inquirers. Bibliographic instruction had begun as early as the 1820s when the librarian at Harvard College occasionally lectured on the library’s rare and valuable works. It placed personal assistance within an educational framework. In the early 1900s, the instructional model of earlier practice was codified and the theoretical basis for indirect, minimal reference service was developed. Subject specialization for reference began in some settings; in the early 1900s, the growth of special libraries offering additional services also began.

The central issue of reference service policy—the nature and extent of assistance to be offered—has continued as a subject of lively debate. The instructional and information approach were both strongly based in libraries. In the 1930s and 1940s, so much attention was given to inputs or reference sources that products and services needed to satisfy readers were not well understood. The future of reference was seen as the direct provision of information to satisfy users while also instructing users in techniques of finding information. Interpersonal dimensions of the reference interview with an emphasis on psychological and communications factors appeared in the literature of the 1960s and 1970s in reaction to the emphasis on information sources in earlier times. Measurement and evaluation of reference service and the lack of standards and guidelines began to be discussed. More recent concerns relating to reference service include the reports that many questions are not answered correctly, the apparent decline in job satisfaction for reference librarians, the increasing number of activities for which reference librarians are responsible, the role of computers in the reference process, and a questioning of the traditional service patterns and reference desk role.

Current reference service

Does present reference service hinder the development of true client-professional relationships? Some recent authors have provided insights into current reference services. Charles Martell recommends restructuring the academic library into a number of client-centered functional work groups (perhaps similar to departmental libraries). 3 Other authors write that libraries should take a proactive role and be sure what business they are in—book delivery or the provision of information. Brian Neilsen asks whether reference librarians are teachers or intermediaries and says librarians should work with the user as an equal partner and share knowledge to move away from a relationship of dependency. 4 Stephen Stoan writes that library skills and research skills are different things often learned in isolation from one another. 5 Joan Bechtel proposes conversation as a new paradigm of librarianship; she says libraries are committed to bringing together in conversation and dialogue voices from the past found in library materials and the present in library users—the academic library provides access to conversations and librarians participate in discussions. 6

Most authors support Patricia Swanson’s viewpoint that “the reference desk represents the critical mass of resources—human, printed, and now electronic, so configured for a convenient and predictable location so that library patrons can find the service and can find someone to help them.”' The reference desk appears to be a sacred library tradition. Other writers speak of the need to examine current services. Patricia Battin says that the “weight of our historic traditions is such that we tend to find it very difficult to look at the future in terms of vastly changed organizational structure.” 8 Richard De Gennaro writes that “libraries need to develop new goals and new strategies based on new technologies…or risk becoming mere symbols of culture and museums of the book.” 9

The reference desk, as the center and given of reference service, is one of the traditions that should be examined. Libraries have changed dramatically in collection size, physical space, and the heterogeneous nature of collections and library users since the time in the late 1800s when the reference desk became a common fixture in libraries. The tension between the general desk and subject specialization continues. William Miller says “the cost of pretending that we can continue to do everything for everybody, and do it well…is an organizational fiction which needs to be discarded.” 10 Thelma Friedes says the reference desk “conveys an implicit promise never to let the reader go unserved, but it also pegs the service at a low level…it is not well designed for dealing with questions requiring interpretation or exploration… users indeed perceive the reference service as intended for simple questions and quick replies…by establishing the desk as the focal point of reader assistance, libraries not only expend professional time on trivial tasks, but also encourage the assumption that the low-level, undemanding type of question handled most easily and naturally at the desk is the service norm. ” 11 A survey of the literature indicates that reference service has seen almost no design change since its origin in the late 19th century. Most writers seem to accept that reference service is useful to anyone, at least potentially.

Renaissance reference librarians serving all comers at a reference desk may no longer be a realistic solution for providing public services for patrons. 12 Has what happens at the reference desk made general users less self-sufficient and more dependent on library staff? The historic tradition of the reference desk makes it difficult for reference librarians and those studying and discussing reference to think of library services without the reference desk as a given for providing service and user interface. On the other hand, much that is written indicates that the reference desk does not provide the most effective and efficient service, and therefore we must consider alternatives. Academic librarians must ask whether their clientele really need a reference desk or whether other services would meet their needs in a more effective manner. Without spending so much time and energy providing service from a reference desk could we as librarians devote our efforts more effectively to developing more appropriate and useful services for our primary clientele? The reference desk in academic libraries needs evaluation based on new technologies and changes in the way people find and use information and the role of libraries in this process.

A theoretical model for future reference service might replace the desk and librarian with a computer terminal where users could log requests and receive answers and appropriate printed handouts. Many questions answered at reference desks could be programmed for quick response; other questions might require interaction with the user, either in person, by telephone, or through the computer terminal. For frequently asked questions, annotations and suggestions could be provided on a terminal; and if assistance is still required, the office hours of a librarian with expertise on the subject could be provided. Librarians could be available much like teaching faculty, by appointment, for certain hours each week in their office.

If reference desks were closed, librarians might be astonished at either how little people missed the service or how terribly frustrated patrons would be in trying to use the library. Faculty accustomed to a traditional library setting would probably be disturbed, as most people are by changes, but librarians working with faculty in other ways could fill those needs. Librarians could be available for classroom presentations and collaboration with faculty to integrate library use into instructional programs. Students who have grown up playing computer games and solving problems with computers might find new services and models more to their liking. In the academic setting, librarians could work with faculty and provide assistance and guidance for students on which sources and approaches are most useful. In short, they could use to their advantage, and their clientele’s, the structure inherent in the academic environment. With more time librarians could seriously address new ways to meet the needs of the primary clientele that may not necessarily be effectively served at a reference desk.

As long as the reference desk model is uncritically accepted, librarians are not challenged to respond creatively to changes in materials, formats, and research opportunities for our users, and users are not challenged to use any of a variety of printed or computerized sources or aids. Librarians must come to grips with these disturbing notions, question their basic assumptions and begin to think about alternatives to the reference desk as the center of reference service. Various models and possible alternatives are needed to explore the energies for transition to new service patterns beyond and perhaps without the reference desk.

Too much attention is being focused on trying to fix what exists rather than thinking about the future. The attention of practicing reference librarians is on the nitty-gritty day-to-day rather than long-range planning. The design of the reference area and fast fact drop-in reference versus gourmet service have been discussed in the literature. 13 At Michigan State, Beth Shapiro tells how library entrances and service points were redesigned. 14 Reference departments and librarians have taken on new services but not given up or revamped old ones. What should the role of libraries and of librarians be and how should we relate to users? Reference librarians will need to continue to be advocates to other librarians for library users. Questions of the quality of reference service will need to be addressed since there is often not enough time for collection development and familiarity with materials and to stay abreast of new technological developments. There is a proliferation of services such as database searching and library instruction, expansion of library handout programs, and increased demands for reference service.

Future factors

The changing user population and information environment will continue to have an impact on reference services. Changes in scale and the knowledge explosion make it difficult to know the clientele and sources. A heterogeneous group of users with a wider disparity in background will continue. Librarians will continue to struggle with how to educate users to be independent. How to balance service to a wide range of users with the needs of the primary clientele and how much time to spend with each user will continue to be discussed. The needs of a variety of clientele must be considered and attempts to analyze current service patterns and identify ways to serve users must expand.

Fees for services and access to information for a variety of clienteles in a variety of formats will continue to be a difficult issue. Librarians must continue to be the advocates and activists for library users as questions of access, censorship, and the storage and preservation of knowledge all become more complex and threatening issues. Libraries must continue to be leaders in the collection and maintenance of knowledge and in the protection of its integrity.

Changing technology and computers have led to new approaches. As early as 1965 Jesse Shera wrote about automation and the reference librarian: “we can now build the machines…but do not know how to use them intelligently in the reference library environment.” 15 Often new technologies transform the uses of old ones but they do not replace them. We have begun to see the use of microcomputer programs including expert systems to provide reference service. New technologies ineluding CD-ROM have begun to have an impact on reference. Amid this proliferation of glamorous and expensive new hardware and software, the quality of some of the databases has been questioned. Sometimes new technologies can make old services work better and often are not radical changes but allow librarians to do what they have wanted to do better.

Online database searching has already changed librarian/patron relations.

Campus information policy and the relationship of the various campus units with information functions has become an issue. Computers have led to the potential of decentralization of services through electronic mail. Researchers using library resources through remote access will make new and different demands on reference service. Online catalogs and machine-readable databases have led to the potential of integrating access to information including tables of contents and periodical articles. Bibliographic instruction for sophisticated researchers will probably evolve to emphasize the selection of databases and the interpretation of results, rather than the mechanics of online searching. The more complicated universe of information resources makes it possible to assume a greater teaching role, helping students and researchers to master the skills of electronic data retrieval. Online database searching has already changed librarian/ patron relations from the reference desk, walk-in transaction model to by-appointment interviews.

What impact will these changes have on staffing for reference? How can we use technology to make people resources go as far as possible? What level of personnel with what types of background will be needed for reference? Are professional librarians needed for the general reference desk? Should appointments become the standard mode of interaction with library users? Some say the status of the information provider is immaterial if there are colleagues to turn to. Job enrichment and dealing with burnout must also be addressed. How does and should a librarian spend time when not on the desk? Is there a morale problem in most reference departments and are opportunities needed for personal growth? Is there a growth of specialization of reference service and reference librarians, with more traditional reference desk service being handled by students and clerical or paraprofessional staff? Should there be?

What will the role of the reference librarian be in this changing environment? What will the future be? Will the traditional reference desk pattern continue? Should it continue? The years ahead in reference service will be challenging and require the courage to try new approaches while defending old approaches that meet the needs of library users. Reference librarians must serve as advocates for library users to be certain that needs are met and responded to in the most appropriate manner possible.

• Samuel S. Green, “Personal Relations between Librarians and Readers,” American Library Journal 1 (November 30, 1876): 79.
• The volume by Samuel Rothstein, The Devel- opîĩient of Reference Services through Academic Traditions, Public Library Practice and Special Li- brarianship (Chicago: ALA/Association of College & Research Libraries, 1955), ACRL Monographs, no. 14, was the basis for much of the information in this paper on the origin and development of reference services.
• Charles R. Martell, The Client-Centered Academic Library: An Organizational Model (Westport, Conn.: Greenwood, 1983).
• Brian Nielsen, “Teacher or Intermediary: Alternative Professional Models in the Information Age,” College & Research Libraries 43 (May 1982): 183-91.
• Stephen K. Stoan, “Research and Library Skills: An Analysis and Interpretation,” College & Research Libraries 45 (March 1984): 99-109.
• Joan M. Bechtel, “Conversation: A New Paradigm for Librarianship?” College & Research Libraries 47 (May 1986): 219-24.
• Patricia K. Swanson, “Traditional Models: Myths and Realities,” in Academic Libraries: Myths and Realities. Proceedings, Third National Conference of the Association of College and Research Libraries, Seattle, April 4-7, 1984. (Chicago: ALA/Association of College & Research Libraries, 1984), 89.
• Patricia Battin, “The Library: Center of the Restructured University,” College & Research Li- braries 45 (May 1984): 171.
• chard De Gennaro, “Libraries & Networks in Transition: Problems and Perspectives for the 1980’s,” Library Journal 106 (May 15,1981): 1049.
• William Miller, “What’s Wrong with Reference: Coping with Success and Failure at the Reference Desk,” American Libraries 15 (May 1984): 322.
• Thelma Friedes, “Current Trends in Academic Libraries,” Library Trends 31 (Winter 1983): 466-67.
• Much of the information in this section was originally presented in Barbara J. Ford, “Reference Beyond (and Without) the Reference Desk,” College & Research Libraries 47 (September 1986): 491-94.
• Mary Biggs, “Replacing the Fast Fact Drop-in with Gourmet Information Service: A Symposium,” Journal of Academic Lihrarianship 11 (May 1985) : 68-78.
• Beth J. Shapiro, "Trying to Fix ‘What’s Wrong with Reference,’” Journal of Academic Librarian- ship 13 (November 1987): 286-91.
• Jesse Shera, “Automation and the Reference Librarians,” RQ 3 (July 1964): 7.

Article Views (Last 12 Months)

Contact ACRL for article usage statistics from 2010-April 2017.

Article Views (By Year/Month)

© 2024 Association of College and Research Libraries , a division of the American Library Association

Print ISSN: 0099-0086 | Online ISSN: 2150-6698

ALA Privacy Policy

ISSN: 2150-6698

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

University libraries, academic affairs division, search form.

• General Information
• Hours & Directions
• Visitor Information
• Library Floor Plan
• Technology in the Library
• Policies & Procedures
• News & Events
• Faculty & Staff Directory
• Employment Opportunities
• Dupré Library and R1
• Give to the Library
• Reference Online Center
• Find Articles & Databases
• Find Journals
• Find eBooks
• Find Theses & Dissertations
• Resources for Faculty
• Trial Resources
• U.S. Government Information
• Research Guides
• Search the Library Catalog
• About Library Services
• Circulation Services

Reference & Research Services

• Distance Learning
• Instructional Services
• Interlibrary Loan
• User Engagement
• Public Services
• Technical Services
• Records Management
• Textbook Clearinghouse
• Special Collections
• University Archives & Acadiana Manuscripts
• Louisiana Room
• Rare Book Collection
• Digital Archives
• UL Lafayette Institutional Repository
• Cajun & Creole Music Collection (CCMC)
• Ernest J. Gaines Center
• Blanco Public Policy Center
• Caffery Competition
• Contact Information
• Ask a Librarian
• Research Appointment Request
• Library Class or Tour Request
• Special Collections Appointment or Tour Request
• Department Directory
• Social Media

You are here

We are here to help you use print and online resources to find the information you need. Librarians can advise about research options in person at the Reference Desk, by phone, and via email, text, chat, and Zoom. We also provide the following services:

• Reference Online Center (ROC) Lab
• Individual Research Consultations

Chat: Ask Us! Reference Desk Call: (337) 482-6025 Email: [email protected] Text: (337) 205-7558 Visit: 1st Floor , Reference Desk Form: Submit Your Question Hours: Reference Desk/Chat

Database Use:

Access to online databases provided by Edith Garland Dupré Library is limited to current students, faculty, and staff of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Users both on and off-campus will be required to log in with their ULID and password. Visitors can access online databases on-site when visiting the library or can use Library Search Guest Access to find limited research materials.

Users must follow 'Fair Use' as outlined in U.S. Copyright Law and provisions of license agreements with database providers. Online database material obtained must be used for personal, non-commercial purposes. Improper use generally includes, but is not limited to, excessive use, utilizing robots/auto crawlers, downloading entire journals, printing numerous copies of a single article, or publishing articles made available through the databases.

Users visiting several databases or viewing or downloading a substantial amount of material from within databases in a short period of time may receive a browser warning and, as a security precaution, their access will be suspended for two (2) hours.

Unauthorized and improper use of online databases and other online resources provided by Edith Garland Dupré Library can result in access revocation.

For questions about use, Ask a Librarian .

Database Accessibility:

EBSCO, one of the library's major database providers, is committed to providing positive experiences for all users. They have provided an EBSCO Accessibility – Navigation Guide and an EBSCO eBook Accessibility User Guide and FAQs for using their databases.

• Directories
• Special Collections
• Contact Info & Hours

Research Assistance

• Teaching & Learning
• K-12 Visitors
• Reproduction Services

Quick Links

• Collection guides
• Search tools & resources
• Digital Collections
• Reproduction services
• Use permissions
• Pay your invoice online
• Support Special Collections

The Libraries' Special Collections provides reference services to the general public for the broad range of materials it houses. During all hours Special Collections is open, we staff our reference desk with curators and subject specialists, all with extensive knowledge about specific areas of the collections.

Starting with our reference desk is a good way to begin your research. If you need it, you may be referred to a specific curator or subject specialist to give you more in-depth assistance.

Before You Visit

We encourage you to use the UW Libraries Catalog , Databases & Lists , and Collection Guides Search (Finding Aids) in advance of your visit. Not all of our materials are represented online, but this will give you start. Searches in the Libraries online catalog can be limited to cataloged holdings of Special Collection, including some manuscript and archival collections. Our Digital Collections also contain a range of materials including photographs, books, manuscripts and archives. Searching these resources from your home computer will allow you to focus your visit on materials available to you only on-site.

Appointments for most materials and general reference research are not required, but some collections and materials are best accessed with the subject specialist. We advise that you contact Special Collections in advance if you have complex questions.

While You Are Here

When you visit Special Collections, we ask that you follow some basic procedures. For more information, see our page on  Using the Collections .

Many areas of Special Collections are not represented in the online catalog and must be accessed through in-house paper finding aids or in-house databases and indices. Our reference staff is available to help you find what you are seeking. Even collections available through the online catalog may be better accessed through face-to-face contact with the curator or the subject specialist.

If You Cannot Visit

We are happy to assist you in any way we can, but we are unable to do your research for you. If you live outside the area you may be able, through  email or telephone or letter , to identify the holdings in Special Collections that will meet your needs. We may be able to answer quick questions or provide you with a referral to a library close to you. We may also be able to do limited photocopying of something that will help you, but such copying may involve a fee. You may need to plan a trip to visit us to take full advantage of our many resources. Please contact Special Collections , and we can advise you on a case-by-case basis what we are able to do for you. In some cases, we can provide contact information for researchers who can do work for you for hire ( link will open a PDF ). Please note, however, that clients who come into Special Collections get the first priority.

With our expansive collections, expert curators and librarians, and a variety of fellowships and learning opportunities, The New York Public Library is an invaluable resource for writers, scholars, students, and creators worldwide.

Search the Research Catalog

Discover NYPL's Research Catalog, featuring an expanded and improved research experience.

New!  Try our  Article Search  to discover online journals, books, and more from home with your library card.

Start Your Research

.css-1t84354{transition-property:var(--nypl-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--nypl-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--nypl-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:var(--nypl-colors-ui-link-primary);text-decoration-style:dotted;text-decoration-thickness:1px;text-underline-offset:2px;}.css-1t84354:hover,.css-1t84354[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;color:var(--nypl-colors-ui-link-secondary);text-decoration-style:dotted;text-decoration-thickness:1px;}.chakra-ui-dark .css-1t84354:hover:not([data-theme]),.chakra-ui-dark .css-1t84354[data-hover]:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1t84354:hover:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1t84354[data-hover]:not([data-theme]),.css-1t84354:hover[data-theme=dark],.css-1t84354[data-hover][data-theme=dark]{color:var(--nypl-colors-dark-ui-link-secondary);}.css-1t84354:focus,.css-1t84354[data-focus]{box-shadow:var(--nypl-shadows-outline);}.chakra-ui-dark .css-1t84354:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1t84354:not([data-theme]),.css-1t84354[data-theme=dark]{color:var(--nypl-colors-dark-ui-link-primary);}.css-1t84354:visited{color:var(--nypl-colors-ui-link-tertiary);}.chakra-ui-dark .css-1t84354:visited:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1t84354:visited:not([data-theme]),.css-1t84354:visited[data-theme=dark]{color:var(--nypl-colors-dark-ui-link-tertiary);}.css-1t84354 a:hover,.css-1t84354 a[data-hover]{color:var(--nypl-colors-ui-link-secondary);}.css-1t84354 screenreaderOnly{clip:rect(1px, 1px, 1px, 1px);height:1px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute!important;width:1px;word-wrap:normal;} Articles & Databases

Find primary, popular, and scholarly sources in our online databases.

Digital Collections

Explore our vast array of prints, photographs, manuscripts, and more.

Digital Research Books

Search millions of scholarly books to read and download for free.

Archives Portal

Search the Library’s extensive collection of archives in multiple formats.

Visit the Library’s Research Centers

Plan Your Visit

Apply for a library card and learn about onsite services and resources, including requesting material, Wi-Fi availability, computers, and more.

Learn More About Our Divisions

Explore the Library's research divisions and special collections by subject, format, or location. 

Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Discover our extraordinary humanities, social sciences, and fine arts collections and exhibitions at one of the Library’s premier research centers.

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

Explore one of the world's most extensive research collections in the fields of dance, theatre, music, and recorded sound.

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Visit this world-renowned cultural institution devoted to African American, African Diaspora, and African history, literature, arts, and politics.

Thomas Yoseloff Business Center

NYPL's premier business library offers an array of free resources for personal finance and investing, small business, and career services.

Explore Exhibitions & Events

Exhibitions

The Library offers free exhibitions and special displays featuring items from our collections at three of our research center locations and online.

Events & Programs

Join us for exciting programming at our research centers, including author talks, open houses, and more.

Find Fellowships & Residencies

Fellowship Opportunities

Learn more about the Library's fellowships and resources for scholars and writers.

Vartan Gregorian Center for Research in the Humanities

Located on the second floor of the Schwarzman Building, the Gregorian Center offers research programs and classes, opportunities for long-term use of the collections, and support for researchers of all kinds. 

Get Research Support

Research Support & Services

Need help? The Library’s expert staff can assist with your research visit.

Any Questions? Ask NYPL

Ask NYPL is the Library's virtual reference and support desk. Contact us by email, phone, or live chat—we're here to help.

Before You Arrive

Apply for a library card, search the research catalog, request free scans, have materials ready in advance, and more.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Stay connected with the latest research news from NYPL, including information about our events, programs, exhibitions, and collections.

Ask a Librarian

Reference desk services.

The Law Library Reference Desk provides reference services in person and via email, phone, and chat. The Reference Desk is staffed with professional law librarians and graduate assistants who are waiting to assist you with your questions about research and library services.

Ask a Law Librarian Form: You can fill out the form located at the bottom of this page to ask a question via email. Email is checked each day during reference hours, Monday through Friday, excluding weekends, holidays, and vacation periods. You may expect a reply to your question within 1 business day.

Phone: You may speak to a librarian by calling the Reference Desk at 919-962-1194. Librarians are available during Reference Desk hours. Please leave a voicemail if you do not reach a librarian, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Chat: You can chat with a librarian during Reference Desk hours by clicking on the chat icon on any library webpage. If your question becomes complex, the librarian may ask that you give us a phone call or recommend a research consultation.

In Person: Please stop by the Law Library Reference Desk during open hours to speak with a librarian. No appointment is necessary.

Who can use Reference Desk services?

Reference Desk services are open to all UNC faculty, students, and staff, as well as members of the public.

What kind of questions can I ask?

Reference services are intended to assist you with questions about research, including research strategies, locating resources, and database navigation. Librarians are also available to answer other questions you might have about the Law Library or library services. Librarians are not available to answer legal questions or provide legal advice of any kind.

UNC students may be asked to schedule a research consultation if they have a lengthy or involved question.

Will I need to wait to chat with a librarian?

Patrons visiting the Reference Desk in person have priority over patrons calling or using the chat function. If multiple patrons are asking questions, the librarian will do their best to answer questions in a timely manner.

When are reference services offered?

There services are offered during regular Reference Desk hours: Monday – Friday 10:00AM – 4:00PM.

Are my chat questions private?

The Law Library may save the transcript of your chat session for educational and research purposes only. Any use of the transcripts will have all identifying information removed. Any information you provide will remain confidential.

Further questions?

Please contact Assistant Director for Public Services Nicole Downing at [email protected] or 919-843-9734 with questions about reference services.

Ask A Librarian Form

Ask a librarian.

• Name * First Last
• Affiliation * UNC-CH Law School UNC-CH Other UNC Non-UNC Please let us know if you are affiliated with UNC.
• Status * Faculty Law Student Staff Alumni Attorney / Legal Professional Graduate / Professional Student Undergraduate Other Please let us know how, if at all, you are affiliated with UNC.
• What resources, if any, have you already tried?
• Question: *

law.richmond.edu web results only

Web Results

Directory results.

• Two-Year J.D
• Exchange email
• UR Talent Web

www.richmond.edu web results only

Reference & Research Services

When we’re open.

Reference assistance is available during the academic year Monday-Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Reference hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon-Fri during the summer and on certain weekdays when school is not in session but the library is open.

How to reach us

You can speak to the librarian on duty at the reference desk, use the reference desk’s chat service, or call at (804) 289-8685.

If the reference desk is not open, please e-mail reference requests to [email protected] or you may ask about reference services at the circulation desk.

Catalog workstations are located throughout the library-near the main entrance, near the stairs on the main floor, and on each floor of the library.

The Default Catalog

All University of Richmond libraries share an integrated catalog that unifies collection and circulation information across all the University’s libraries. You can limit your search to just materials located in the Law Library by:

• Choosing “Law Library” from the “Limit to” dropbox with the basic search,
• Doing an “advanced search” and choosing “Law Library” under Location , or
• After doing a search, select “add filter: Law Library” from the choices on the right side of the results screen.

The OneSearch catalog, available from the OneSearch tab, performs a comprehensive search of all library materials, including books, e-books, journals, magazines and newspapers, articles, and multimedia. It will automatically (and transparently) search for articles across many of the databases the library subscribes to. Using OneSearch can be a good way to start your research, although it is important to be aware that the number of search results can be extremely high. You can narrow down these results using the filters available on the left side of the page.

Course Reserves

To get a list of materials placed on course reserve for a particular class or by a faculty member, check here .

Finding Journals

If you are looking for a particular journal want to know either the extent of the library’s coverage for the journal or which database has articles from that journal, search for the journal’s title using the Journal Titles tab.

Get a List of the Library’s Databases

To get a list of the Library’s database subscriptions, click on the Online Databases link on the menu at left. There you will find a complete list, where you can narrow by subject or alphabetically.

The Law Library offers numerous services for faculty, including:

• Inter-Library Loan .
• Liaison with a Law librarian.
• Research projects performed by library’s pool of research assistants .
• Guest-lecturing on research topics in doctrinal classes.
• Table of Contents service listing recent journal articles.
• Scholarship repository for your publications.
• Assessment resources (Ask Joyce Manna Janto for access)

For questions about the library’s faculty services, please contact Sylvia Yanes , Research & Faculty Services Librarian.

The Law Library offers numerous services for students, including:

• Ask a librarian at the reference desk for research assistance, use the reference desk’s chat service, or reach us via telephone (804) 289-8685, or email .
• Make an appointment with a Law librarian for help with more complicated research projects.
• The Library has twelve study rooms, located in the basement and on the second floor. Each room has whiteboards and a large computer monitor for collaborative work. Rooms may be reserved through the reservation form .
• Course Reserves at the circulation desk. To find materials reserved for a particular class, please use the tool here .
• Research assistant and journal staff training.
• First-Year Guide
• Research Assistants and Journal Staff
• The Bluebook
• The library provides research instruction and training throughout the academic year. Sessions include training for research assistants and law journal staff. During the spring semester, the library hosts "Prepare for Practice", a series of lunchtime sessions on an array of research topics to help students prepare for summer (or post-graduation) success. All students are welcome to attend regardless of class year or summer employment status.

Please contact Alex Hutchings , Research & Student Services Librarian, with any questions.

The Library has produced a wide variety of research guides on numerous legal topics. They may be accessed here .

Introductory guides on Virginia and Federal legal research are available in print at the reference desk.

The library maintains an extensive collection of materials specific to Virginia law, including monographs on a wide variety of topics, Virginia state court reporters, Virginia statutes and administrative materials, and Virginia legislative history. The Virginia materials are shelved in the KFV classification on the first floor of the library.

The library also maintains a collection of Virginia Supreme Court records and briefs.

For news about the library, library services, and featured resources, please read the MuseNews Blog . The library also sends periodic emails to students and faculty during the academic year with news and other resources.

The Law Library’s Special Collections include a number of rare volumes pertaining to the development of Anglo-American legal principles and most Virginia primary materials printed before 1866. These documents are available for inspection by researchers; interested parties should contact Molly Lentz-Meyer , Director of Bibliographic Services, to arrange a time to inspect the documents.

A more detailed explanation of our current archival holdings, including indexes to most of our larger collections of papers, can be found here .

The Law Library also accepts donations of unique documents and private papers from judges, attorneys, or faculty members that relate to other collections already held by the Law Library or to research interests in the Law School. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Joyce Manna Janto , Director of Public & Instructional Services.

Research and Information Help / Reference Desk: Home

• Página Principal

Contact Us / Contacta con Nosotros:

Call: 541-917-4645

Email: [email protected] Text: (650) 667-6620

Appointments / Citas

We are co-located with the writing center.

The Writing Center's goal is to help students become more confident, effective, and expressive writers – and to make the writing process more joyful. They offer coaching for all students for any writing project, in any class, and at any stage in the writing process.

Learn more at the  Writing Center's website .

Get research help from a Reference Librarian

Our librarians are research experts who will help you find and use information on any topic. We aim to be your guides in this process and our goal is to empower you to do research for yourself, whether it is for a class project or personal interest.

For quick answers, we offer drop-in assistance at the library's Reference Desk and via phone, email, chat, or text. We also offer 25 and 50 minute research consultation appointments to dig in to a topic of your choice (online or in-person).

Reference Desk Hours :

• Monday: 9am-1pm
• Saturdays: 11am-3pm

Research Consultation Appointments are available:

• Monday-Thursday: 9am - 12pm

Finally, you can reach a librarian 24 hours a day, 7 days a week using our chat service. Please note that after our open hours you will most likely be helped by a librarian from another library.

How to make an appointment with a Librarian

Research appointments are a great way to get one-on-one help from a librarian. We encourage you to make an appointment at any point in your research process. We are all trained to help with any topic, but you can go to  Meet the librarians  page to learn if there is someone who focuses on your subject area. Research appointments are available in person or over Google Meet. They must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

To make a research appointment with a librarian, call the Reference Desk at 541-917-4645 or do the following steps:

• Open  Watermark (formerly called Aviso). Log in using your Single Sign-On ID and password
• Click on the  Meetings  tab and choose  Library  as the location.
• ​Library (virtual) to schedule an online meeting with any available librarian.
• OR Library (in-person: Albany) to schedule a meeting at the LBCC Library in Albany.
• OR a specific librarian.
• In the  What's on your mind  box, describe your assignment.
• Select an appointment length, then choose a date and time. Click  Save .

You will receive a Google calendar invitation and an email from a librarian with important information about your appointment.   Make sure to check your LBCC student email !  Please bring your assignment to the appointment, along with any other helpful documents.

When in doubt, ask a Librarian!

There are many ways that we can help you be successful with your class projects. Here are some examples.

When you are beginning a project , librarians can help you:

• Generate, refine, and explore topics
• Discuss the types of resources available to you
• Plan a strategy for your research process​

While you are working on your assignment , librarians will help you:

• Scholarly articles and news or magazine articles
• Images, videos, and music
• Statistics, reports, and professional literature
• Access resources from other libraries
• Evaluate information and sources for credibility​
• Create and find open access content and understand copyright

Once you have found the sources you will use , librarians can help you:

• Be a scholar by properly paraphrasing or quoting sources, creating citations, and Bibliographies and Works Cited in APA, MLA, or other citation styles.
• Next: Página Principal >>
• Last Updated: Oct 16, 2023 3:12 PM
• URL: https://linnbenton.libguides.com/reference

• search Search notifications Alerts person_outline Account
• Locations & Services arrow_right
• Find & Borrow arrow_right
• Using the Libraries arrow_right
• Research Support arrow_right
• About Us arrow_right

Search all sources

About reference and discovery services.

Reference and Discovery Services provides multi-modal, point-of-need research and technical assistance to MSU affiliates and community users in support of MSU’s teaching and outreach mission.

Head of Reference & Discovery Services Emilia Marcyk-Taylor [email protected]

Reference and Research

You can get help with a reference or research question in the following ways:

• In-person - visit the Reference Desk, located on 1 East in the Main Library
• Contact a reference librarian
• Chat with a member of the Reference & Discovery Services unit
• Give us a call at 517-353-8700 (research help available when the Reference Desk is open)
• Contact a Liaison Librarian for your department or major

Technical Support

Reference and Discovery Services provides technical and functional support for the MSU Libraries' electronic resources and core discovery systems:

• MSU Net ID authentication to the Libraries’ electronic resources
• Troubleshooting off-campus and full-text access to electronic resources
• Integration of library resources into learning systems and other course-related materials (i.e., stable links )
• First point-of-contact technical support for MSU Commons , MSU's institutional repository.
• First point-of-contact technical support for EndNote , a citation management software.

You can get technical support for using library resources in the following ways:

• Give us a call at 517-353-8700
• Contact a consultant
• Attend a workshop

If you have problems with D2L, call the MSU IT Service Desk at 517-432-6200 for assistance.

The MSU Libraries does not provide health, medical, legal, or personal advice. To protect privacy, MSU salary information is not provided over the phone or by email.

The confidentiality of library records in the state of Michigan is protected by "The Library Privacy Act," Michigan Compiled Laws 397.601-606, Act 455 of 1982. Note that federal law may supersede rights provided by this Michigan Law.

• Bunker Hill Community College

Reference Desk

With the start of the the Spring 2024 semester, the Reference Desk is open.

The physical location is in the new library diagonally across from the Circulation Desk.

It will be staffed by a Bunker Hill Community College Librarian Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

You can reach librarians by five methods:

• In Person in the Library, N-300
• Library's website at http://www.bhcc.edu/library
• "Chat with a Librarian!" interface on the library's homepage.
• Telephone - Please call (617) 228-2213
• Email - bhcclibrary@bhcc.edu

Chat with a Librarian! chat is designed to assist library users with brief research questions, such as how to find information on a particular topic using the library’s online catalog or electronic resources.

More complex questions, such as those requiring in-depth knowledge of a subject or resource, may require the librarian to suggest an alternative method of communication, such as an in-person reference appointment.

Library Sessions (In-Person and Online)

• For Faculty   - Information literacy workshops for your classes:  Workshop Sessions for Classes
• For Students   - One on one sessions with a librarian:  One on One Sessions for Students

Can I Print Or Make Copies In the Library?

Yes. Patrons can print and make copies in the Library. You must have your BHCC login and password to do so.  The limit on printing is 20 pages.

Popular searches

Financial Aid

Titans Direct Portal

Scholarships

Quick links

Community visitors are welcome! If you do not have a CCM ID, please stop at the Public Safety office, 675 Route 10, for a temporary ID.

in this section

• Math Center
• Science Center
• Writing Center
• For Prospective Students
• Documentation Guidelines
• Accommodation Requests
• Accessibility Resources
• Service Animals Policy
• Rights and Responsibilities
• Test Taking Procedures
• Eligibility
• Services Provided to EOF Students
• Financial Assistance & Scholarship
• Counseling / Workshops / Job and Legal Assistance
• The Women's Center - FAQ's
• Academic Advising Resources
• Planning Tools & Course Information
• Meet Our Counselors
• Our Services
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Faculty and Staff Resources
• Job Search Assistance & Resources
• Internships & Experiential Learning
• Planning Your Transfer
• State-Wide Transfer Agreement
• Rutgers Partnership
• Articulation Agreements
• Government Documents Collection Policy
• Government Documents Resources
• For Students
• For Faculty and Staff
• For the Community
• External Resources for Students
• Academic Complaints
• Tuition Refund Appeal Process

Search Library Collections

Books, Ebooks, Audio, Video and More

Articles & Databases

Request Articles, Books, and Other Materials from Other Libraries (Interlibrary Loan)

Course Reserves

Help Guides to Subjects and Courses

Find Fiction at the CCM Library

Library Information & Services

Business Development Resources for Northwest New Jersey

About Distance Learning Students

All library services are available to enrolled  Distance Learning  students.

Library Cards Students coming to campus may obtain a library card at the main desk in the library with a valid CCM picture ID. Students who are unable to get to the main campus may request a library barcode to use for borrowing materials. To request a barcode, a distance learning student should email the Ask A Librarian service with a library card request including their name, address, telephone number, CCM email address and student ID number. Upon receipt of the email, a barcode will be sent to the student.

Periodical Articles All CCM students have free access to Electronic Databases to locate periodical articles. When accessing the databases off campus, be sure to use the remote access links. If a full text article is not available on the database, it can be ordered through the Article Request Form through Interlibrary Loan online. If a student is unable to come to campus to pick up an article, this should be indicated in the “special notes” section of the form. The article can then be faxed or mailed to the student’s home.

Reference & Research Assistance Students who are unable to come to campus can find reference and research assistance through the  Ask A Librarian  service, or by phone at 973-328-5296.

Librarians are available to help with:

• Book and audiovisual material searches to locate materials in the CCM catalog and other resources
• Periodical database searches for recommendations on appropriate databases, search strategies, and document retrieval
• Web searching to help identify appropriate web resources, use search engines, and evaluate search results

For Faculty

Information Literacy/Library Instruction   Request a Library Instruction Class Request an Information Literacy class for your students. Reference librarians will instruct students in using credible academic sources to support student assignments, in person or in online courses. Please make requests two weeks in advance.

Course Design Resources  Librarians can assist in locating Open Educational Resource (OER) materials, supplementary multimedia content, active learning exercises, teaching tools and other resources.

Collection Development    Suggest a Title Faculty are encouraged to make recommendations for purchasing books and other materials to support classes and student research.

Reserves    Request an Item to be Placed on Reserve Faculty can have materials placed on reserve for students to check out for 3 hours, 24 hours or 7 days

Interlibrary Loan    Request a Book, DVD or CD   •   Request a Journal

Reciprocal Borrowing The VALE Faculty Reciprocal Borrowing Program enables faculty to borrow materials in person from participating New Jersey academic libraries.

For Information, call 973-328-5300

Information Literacy

In this era of overload, information literacy is a necessary skill which enables the lifelong learner to critically analyze and utilize information. More details on Information Literacy are available through the  Association of College and Research Libraries of the American Library Association .

Many CCM instructors book class time in the LRC Computer Instruction Lab to help their students learn how to find, analyze, and use information. The instruction sessions are taught by a CCM librarian in the Learning Resource Center.

Students who need in-depth assistance may make an appointment with a librarian for individual instruction. To arrange for assistance, please call 973-328-5296.

Library Hours

SPECIAL HOURS: Wednesday, 3/06/24. Open 5:00 – 9:00 P.M. ONLY.

Wednesday, 1/17/24 – Sunday, 3/10/24

Monday – Thursday

In-person and Remote Service

8:30 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

Monday, 3/11/24 – Sunday, 3/17/24

Monday – Friday

8:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Monday, 3/18/24 – Tuesday, 5/7/24

Library Directory

Library Team Contact Details

Cannizzaro, Regina:  Coord Tech Svcs

973-328-5295

[email protected]

Carruthers, Lia:  Reference Librarian

973-328-5308

[email protected]

Craven, Heather:  Dean

973-328-5281

[email protected]

Davan, Scott:  P/T Reference Librarian

973-328-5296

[email protected]

Feld, Peggy:  Lib Services Asst

973-328-5306

[email protected]

Illera, Daniela:  P/T Lib Services Asst

973-328-5300

[email protected]

Potenza, Elizabeth:  Lib Services Asst

973-328-5310

[email protected]

Richel, Lynee:  Coord Instr Services

973-328-5278

[email protected]

Tolleson, Mark:  Assoc Dir

973-328-5311

[email protected]

Venkatesan, Suba:  Lib Services Asst

973-328-5307

[email protected]

Ver Hoven, Donna:  Admin Assistant

973-328-5282

[email protected]

U.S. Government Documents

The CCM Library, designated by Congress as a Government Documents Depository since 1975, provides free access to Government publications.

Federal Depository Program

The Federal Depository Library Program was established by Congress in keeping with its responsibility to provide the public with information about government policies and programs.  CCM is one of two depositories in the Morris County area, along with  Drew University .

Reference Assistance and Document Access

• Government Documents are available electronically to all users and can be searched using the  library catalog .
• Librarians will help you find materials, research topics, and navigate databases. If a specific document is not found they will attempt to locate the item with the help of the regional librarian in Newark or from other depository librarians.
• You may use telephone, email, and chat services for  remote assistance .

Additional Links

LRC Government Document Collection Policy

Government Document Resources

Take The Next Steps

Blue Book: Yale Law School Exams, 1874-2024 - A Rare Book Exhibit

Event details.

Blue Book: Yale Law School Exams, 1874-2004 A Yale Law School Bicentennial Exhibit On view in the Lillian Goldman Law Library Library Lower Level 2 April 17 - May 29, 2024  

What is the ship's husband? Is a will written in pencil valid? What phenomena follow and are indicative of death? What is meant by "adhering to the public enemy?"

Yale Law School’s examination papers offer a time capsule of the school’s expectations of its curriculum and students over the course of its history.   Drawing on the Rare Book Collection's archive of examination papers from 1874-2004, Blue Book traces the Yale Law School's transition from its early curriculum, emphasizing textbooks and recitation, to an approach centering the case study.

Upcoming Events

For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to the world’s only floating nuclear cogeneration plant in the Arctic

The fuel was supplied to the northernmost town of Russia along the Northern Sea Route.

The first in the history of the power plant refueling, that is, the replacement of spent nuclear fuel with fresh one, is planned to begin before 2024. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, is Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC), a company of Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL that is based in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactors of the icebreaking type. Unlike convenient ground-based large reactors (that require partial replacement of fuel rods once every 12-18 months), in the case of these reactors, the refueling takes place once every few years and includes unloading of the entire reactor core and loading of fresh fuel into the reactor.

The cores of KLT-40 reactors of the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit have a number of advantages compared to the reference ones: a cassette core was used for the first time in the history of the unit, which made it possible to increase the fuel energy resource to 3-3.5 years between refuelings, and also reduce the fuel component of the electricity cost by one and a half times. The FNPP operating experience formed the basis for the designs of reactors for nuclear icebreakers of the newest series 22220. Three such icebreakers have been launched by now.

For the first time the power units of the Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear power plant were connected to the grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020. The supply of nuclear fuel from Elektrostal to Pevek and its loading into the second reactor is planned for 2024. The total power of the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, supplied to the coastal grid of Pevek without thermal energy consumption on shore, is about 76 MW, being about 44 MW in the maximum thermal power supply mode. The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya TPP, which has already been operating for more than 70 years. Secondly, energy is supplied to the main mining companies in western Chukotka in the Chaun-Bilibino energy hub a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimsk ore zone. In September 2023, a 110 kilovolt power transmission line with a length of 490 kilometers was put into operation, connecting the towns of Pevek and Bilibino. The line increased the reliability of energy supply from the FNPP to both Bilibino consumers and mining companies, the largest of which is the Baimsky GOK. The comprehensive development of the Russian Arctic is a national strategic priority. To increase the NSR traffic is of paramount importance for accomplishment of the tasks set in the field of cargo shipping. This logistics corridor is being developed due regular freight voyages, construction of new nuclear-powered icebreakers and modernization of the relevant infrastructure. Rosatom companies are actively involved in this work. Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL (Rosatom Fuel Division) includes companies fabricating nuclear fuel, converting and enriching uranium, manufacturing gas centrifuges, conducting researches and producing designs. As the only nuclear fuel supplier to Russian NPPs, TVEL supplies fuel for a total of 75 power reactors in 15 countries, for research reactors in nine countries, as well as for propulsion reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world runs on TVEL fuel. Rosatom Fuel Division is the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium and the leader on the global stable isotope market. The Fuel Division is actively developing new businesses in chemistry, metallurgy, energy storage technologies, 3D printing, digital products, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. TVEL also includes Rosatom integrators for additive technologies and electricity storage systems. Rosenergoatom, Joint-Stock Company is part of Rosatom Electric Power Division and one of the largest companies in the industry acting as an operator of nuclear power plants. It includes, as its branches, 11 operating NPPs, including the FNPP, the Scientific and Technical Center for Emergency Operations at NPPs, Design and Engineering as well as Technological companies. In total, 37 power units with a total installed capacity of over 29.5 GW are in operation at 11 nuclear power plants in Russia. Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC, Elektrostal) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fuel for nuclear power plants. The company produces fuel assemblies for VVER-440, VVER-1000, RBMK-1000, BN-600,800, VK-50, EGP-6; powders and fuel pellets intended for supply to foreign customers. It also produces nuclear fuel for research reactors. The plant belongs to the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom.

Rosatom obtained a license for the first land-based SMR in Russia

On April 21, Rosenergoatom obtained a license issued by Rostekhnadzor to construct the Yakutsk land-based SMR in the Ust-Yansky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

ROSATOM and FEDC agree to cooperate in the construction of Russia's first onshore SNPP

ROSATOM and FEDC have signed a cooperation agreement to build Russia's first onshore SNPP in Yakutia.

Rosatom develops nuclear fuel for modernized floating power units

Rosatom has completed the development of nuclear fuel for the RITM-200S small modular reactor designed for the upgraded floating power units.

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

15 Facts About New Beers Eve April 6th

8 Facts About National Orchid Day April 16th

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

• Subscriber Services
• For Authors
• Publications
• Archaeology
• Art & Architecture
• Bilingual dictionaries
• Classical studies
• Encyclopedias
• English Dictionaries and Thesauri
• Language reference
• Linguistics
• Media studies
• Medicine and health
• Names studies
• Performing arts
• Science and technology
• Social sciences
• Society and culture
• Overview Pages
• Subject Reference
• English Dictionaries
• Bilingual Dictionaries

Recently viewed (0)

• Save Search

John Everett-Heath

• Share This Facebook LinkedIn Twitter

Related Content

In this work.

• Abbreviations
• Select Bibliography
• Publishing Information
• General Links for this Work
• Preface to the Second Edition
• General Note
• Introduction
• Personalities
• Next Version

Elektrostal' , Moscow/Russia  

Zatishye‘Electric Steel’ from elektricheskiy and stal′ . A steel works was built here in the early years after the ...

Access to the complete content on Oxford Reference requires a subscription or purchase. Public users are able to search the site and view the abstracts and keywords for each book and chapter without a subscription.

Please subscribe or login to access full text content.

If you have purchased a print title that contains an access token, please see the token for information about how to register your code.

For questions on access or troubleshooting, please check our FAQs , and if you can''t find the answer there, please contact us .

• Oxford University Press

PRINTED FROM OXFORD REFERENCE (www.oxfordreference.com). (c) Copyright Oxford University Press, 2023. All Rights Reserved. Under the terms of the licence agreement, an individual user may print out a PDF of a single entry from a reference work in OR for personal use (for details see Privacy Policy and Legal Notice ).

date: 20 April 2024

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice
• Accessibility
• [66.249.64.20|185.80.151.9]
• 185.80.151.9

Character limit 500 /500