About the Reference Department

The mission of the Reference Department is to anticipate and meet the information needs of the Alvin Sherman Library and all its users in a timely, accurate, and professional manner. We strive to effectively communicate the library's services, resources, and policies to users and provide assistance and information to all readers that are both accurate and comprehensive. We offer a full range of reference services to both NSU-affiliated users and the public.

The Reference Department is located on the second floor of the Alvin Sherman Library. The reference desk is staffed seven days a week except for all Nova Southeastern University designated holidays.

Reference librarians provide the following services:

Reference Assistance

The Ask a Librarian reference service is available in person, by phone, and via email or chat to all library users. Reference librarians also prepare electronic help pages as well as subject guides, database instruction sheets and maps to help library users better utilize the library's varied resources.

Instruction

Librarians work with NSU faculty and public groups to provide instruction and orientation to the library and its services. Faculty from NSU as well as other institutions can consult with a reference librarian for assistance in developing class assignments and readings that best utilize the library's resources. Professors, teachers and/or media specialists are encouraged to advise Reference librarians in advance of homework assignments so that we can be better prepared to help students with research and library projects.

Librarians also work one on one with individuals to provide specialized library instruction and library orientation. See Library instruction.

Materials Selection

Reference staff works with Collection Development and NSU faculty to select materials in a wide range of disciplines for the Alvin Sherman Library's collection. NSU faculty members are encouraged to consult with a subject specialist if they wish to have materials acquired in their area of interest.

Special Projects

Reference librarians work on special projects such as exhibits, academic and public programming and workshops, and serve on a variety of committees and boards for the library, the university, and the community.

Follow the links on the right to find out more, or feel free to contact us.