The staff at the Information/Reference Desk (850-474-2424) on the first floor assists patrons with the research process, designing research strategies, and utilizing library resources. The Reference staff also provides instruction in the use of the online catalog and other print and electronic research materials. The UWF Library Catalog provides access to the library collections and online databases at UWF and at other libraries.
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The Reference Collection contains print and electronic reference materials, some of which are outlined in the Research Guides. The collection also contains Government Documents and maps.
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Reference staff offers assistance with the research process and research strategies. The staff also offers instruction in the use of the Reference Collection, the UWF Library Catalog, Government Documents, and online databases. Assistance in using the variety of available information sources and understanding aspects of the research process is also available via the research guides and Online Tutorials. |
The Reference Department also offers library instruction and interlibrary loan services.
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The Reference staff offers library instruction sessions in the first floor classroom which are open to anyone interested in attending. No sign-up is required. Most of the classes are one hour in length and address research strategies and Reference resources. Reference staff also periodically offer selected, subject-specific sessions and classes on basic Internet research. Hands-on opportunities are included in the classes. An online quiz reinforces the information presented in the session.
Faculty who would like to schedule sessions tailored for specific classes may contact subject specialists. We are able accommodate up to 40 students in our library classroom or we can travel to campus classrooms if that is more convenient. For more information and a schedule of basic orientation classes, visit the Library Instruction page.
Recently, the library has introduced wireless technology, laptop checkout, scanning and printing services, production software availability, and other innovations that have created the need for technical assistance at the Information/Reference Desk. We are adding technically adept staff at the service desk and we have created a list of FAQs that address some common technology issues.
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Reference staff is available to assist individuals at the Reference Desk in person or by telephone. If UWF faculty, students, or staff desire additional individual instruction, contact the Reference staff to schedule an appointment (850-474-2424). |
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Patrons may also submit questions to the Reference staff using the library's Ask-A-Librarian form. Responses to inquiries received Monday through Thursday will generally be sent by e-mail within 48 hours. Reference staff will respond to questions received Friday through Sunday by the following Tuesday.
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Each semester, the Reference Department publishes a newsletter highlighting new resources and services. To view recent newsletters, click on the links below:
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Contact the Reference staff by phone at 850-474-2424 or send an email to Caroline Thompson, Head of Reference.
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