All questions consistent with our scope of service are welcomed at any branch or via Ask a Librarian where you can ask a question online or text (404) 949-1025. This service is available from 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday. Ask a Librarian is the first stop for any type of reference question.
A small reference collection with key research materials on various topics is housed on Central’s 3rd floor. These materials cannot be checked out, but pages can be copied at photocopiers in the building – ask 3rd floor staff for assistance. Reference books are identified by an R on the spine of the book.
Some reference books are kept in the public space on Central’s 3rd floor while others are in closed stacks. All reference books can be located using the Library catalog. Reference books in the catalog are identified by an R in front of the call number. Please ask a librarian for help retrieving closed-stack materials.
The reference collection includes dictionaries, encyclopedias, bibliographies, research handbooks and guides, catalogs, atlases and maps, and directories. Many titles that were previously available as books are now digital resources. The best places to find online reference books are Ebook Central, opens a new window (ProQuest) and eBooks on EBSCOhost, opens a new window on GALILEO (www.galileo.usg.edu, password required).
Quick reference information on health, business, nonprofit organizations, law and government, and African American life are available in the ready reference alcove along the south wall of Central’s 3rd floor, near the window.
Many periodicals are available online, opens a new window, but a selection of current popular titles and key newspapers is available in print in the Periodicals area on Central’s 3rd floor. Ask 3rd floor staff for older issues in closed stacks.
U.S. Government Information
Central Library is a Federal Depository of the Georgia 5th Congressional District. Public access to the Government Documents Collection is guaranteed by public law. Physical materials are housed on the3rd floor of Central Library and thousands of ready-to-read digital government documents titles are available through the library catalog, opens a new window linked to their electronic versions. Patrons may also visit other area Federal Government Depositories for materials and services. Click here, opens a new window for links to government information on popular topics.
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