Reference and Information Desks

Consult professional librarians who enjoy solving problems and assisting researchers. Located on the first floor of the Main library and at all the branches, Reference librarians can find specific facts, suggest strategies and appropriate resources that will assist you with your research, including books, journals, electronic databases and Internet sites.

Interlibrary loan

Request an item not owned by the St. Joseph County Public Library. Interlibrary Loan can search for the item for you and borrow it from another library if it is available. Place your request in person or by phone at any SJCPL location.

Tours, Talks and Programming

Tours:
Learn to use the catalog and databases, special resources, and what services are available in each department with a tour of the Main library. Request your tour at the Reference Department at least 3 weeks before your proposed visit. Tours are tailored to fit the needs of each school group or business and are not limited to the Reference area.

Talks:
Get a librarian to visit your school, group, or business to talk about library services and resources.

Programming:
Attend free programs for the public at all SJCPL locations. We offer programs on a variety of topics including gardening, travel, current events and local interests.

Public Use Computers

Get free computer and Internet access for up to two hours per day at all library locations. Copies printed from the computer stations are 15 cents per copy. Computers with word processing are available at all library locations. Computers for children are located in the Children's Services Department on the 3rd floor, and in branch children's areas.

WI-FI

Get free high-speed Internet access when using personal notebook or laptop computers equipped with wireless or airport cards. Laptops for checkout (for use in the library) are available at the Francis, Centre, Lakeville and North Liberty branches. Instructions are available at the Reference Desk at each location. Free Wireless access is available at all locations.

Internet Classes

Take free Internet classes. Topics offered range from the very basic for the techno-terrified to more advanced web searching and e-mail. Classes are offered at various times and days to fit your schedule. Ask for the latest class schedule at any branch.

Online Catalog

Search the library's online catalog from the convenience of your own home. Check the status of your library card and renew your own books.

Instant Messaging (IM)

Ask a librarian a reference question via instant messaging (IM). This communication service enables individuals to "chat" with each other in real time over the Internet. We will help you navigate your search on the Internet or find resources available through the library. Simple instructions are provided for setting up an Instant Messager account if you do not already have one.

E-mail Reference

E-mail us questions and we will answer requests within 24 hours, except on weekends. We will guide you to resources and help you with various search strategies. This service is available to SJCPL cardholders only, unless you are requesting information from our Local History collection.

SJCPL Blog

Read the latest in the library's Web Log. It is an online bulletin board that keeps our patrons informed and amused with information about upcoming releases in the world of publishing and entertainment, local and Web resources as well as news about programs and events throughout the library system.

Online Research Resources and Databases

Visit the library's web page, www.libraryforlife.org, and click on Research Resources to explore these informative databases. Reference librarians are available at all branches and by phone to assist you with these resources.

On Our Shelves

We offer much more than just dictionaries and encyclopedias.

Subject Guides

These guides can point you to internet, library and community resources on topics that interest you. If you don't see a page that you'd like, tell us and we may add it!