University of Wisconsin - Stout

Reference Services

The Reference Area is a key location for assistance in identifying materials available through the library, developing research strategies, and for instruction in the use of library databases and resources.

For in-depth research, a consultation is always helpful. During a consultation, a library user meets with a reference librarian to:

  1. Learn the use of electronic indexes and databases and/or
  2. Discuss unique research needs. This process is initiated by contacting the Reference Desk via Ask a Librarian or the Consultation Request form.

Hours

Contact Information

Request Reference Desk librarian assistance with research or information needs and instruction in the use of materials:

Questions will be answered by the reference librarian currently staffing the Reference Desk.

Research Guides

The library publications are designed to help identify subject-oriented resources and in the use of certain reference sources. Subject and Reference Guides include web and University Library resources; this is a good place to start.

Research guides in paper format are located on a display rack near the Reference Desk.

Stout Library Catalog

The Stout Library Catalog is the link to most materials in the library and offers a wide variety of searches including: keyword guided, author, title, subject, call number, keyword boolean, and new books.

For additional assistance with using the catalog, view the Online Tutorial for Basic Keyword Searches (flash demo).

Indexes and Abstracts

Indexes and abstracts identify magazine, journal and newspaper articles on specific subjects.

For additional assitance using indexes, select the HELP button on the homepage to view several online tutorials (flash demos.)

Printing

A centralized print server system, which can be activated from all public work stations throughout the library, is located in the Printing Stations area, 1st floor. Print jobs can also be sent from laptops by selecting a library printer. Both black and white and color printing are available.

Microfiche Collections

UW-Stout Thesis Collection

Equipment for Public Use

The following equipment is available in the Reference Area:

The Assistive Technology Area, providing equipment for students with disabilities, is located in the northwest corner of the Reference Area.

Reference Collections

This collection contains resource materials such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks and directories in paper format. Materials are located and arranged by reference call numbers on the numbered shelves near the west wall of the Reference Area.

Use the Stout Library Catalog and limit to Reference location.

Telephone Directories

A limited collection of Wisconsin directories and most UW campus directories. They are available in a low bookshelf next to Stack #18 in the Reference Area.

Educational Materials Center (EMC)

The Educational Materials Center has collections of textbooks from K-12 in Stout's education fields, curriculum guides, and children's and young adult literature and audiovisual materials. The EMC is near the windows in the Reference Area.

Atlas Collection

Standard and oversize atlases are available in the library. Search using the Stout Library Catalog. The atlas case is on the west wall of the Reference Area.

Folded Map Collection

State and city folded maps can be found using the Stout Library Catalog. Folded maps are in a file cabinet along the back wall of the Reference Area.

Reference Librarians

All librarians assist in reference assistance and consultations:

Last Updated: 08/27/2009 and Last Revised: 08/26/08

Contact Ask a Librarian for more information or help on this topic.