Reference and Research Support
Reference is the place to begin your library research. For example, in reference you can find encyclopedias and dictionaries; hard-to-find facts; up-to-date maps; telephone numbers and addresses for government agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses; and information on how to do citations. Reference books provide background for research topics, dates of events, brief biographies and literary criticism. Reference sources also list, in guides developed by those familiar with the field, the most useful and current books and articles for your research. Staff-designed subject guides point you to the best resources in the reference collection.
Reference offers the latest in online, Web-based tools for finding books and articles, college catalogs and electronic books as well as for searching the Web. Electronic journals are also available through the online book catalog, URSUS.
Reference librarians provide help in finding and using research tools and in designing research strategies. The staff offers in-person help with research, teaches library classes and creates subject research guides. For help with your research, stop by the reference desk or call for an appointment (207/621-3348). Telephone assistance, limited to questions that can be handled in a few minutes, is also available.
Library instruction classes, taught by library staff, teach students how to do library research. Librarians work closely with faculty in designing course-related classes. In these sessions, students learn about research tools and the use of online databases for finding books, articles and Web sites. Faculty can schedule a class by coming to or calling the reference desk (207/621-3348). Sessions are scheduled during class time. Faculty should contact reference staff at least one week before they want the class scheduled.
E-mail reference
Reference staff provides e-mail reference help for UMA students, staff and faculty. E-mail reference is for brief, factual questions such as checking library holdings, definitions of words, or addresses of organizations and businesses. Those with in-depth research questions should come to the library. ITV and other distance education students should contact Off-Campus Library Services. Borrowing transactions, such as renewals, holds, or interlibrary loan, are not part of this service. Staff will respond as soon as possible, usually within 48 hours (Monday-Friday). If you need a response more quickly, call or visit the reference desk.
Click here to open the e-mail reference form. This service is for UMA students, faculty and staff only.