Reference Collection

The Library maintains a large electronic and print collection of reference materials providing factual information or directing patrons to further sources for that information. Such materials include, but are not limited to, encyclopedias, dictionaries, almanacs, atlases, handbooks, directories, style manuals, and bibliographies.

Resources are available in print or electronic formats -- sometimes both. Electronic reference materials can be accessed through the Library Catalog. See Research Strategies 1: Getting Started: Reference Resources for more information. Print reference sources are indicated by "Learning Commons" or "Ref" under LOCATION in the Library Catalog record.

When the catalog indicates "Learning Commons" as the location, the item will be found in the main floor, Learning Commons. Reference materials with the catalog LOCATION code "(Ref)" (example: Floor2 (Ref)) are shelved on the upper floors alongside the circulating collection. Reference materials marked as STORED in the catalog must be requested through the library's Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS). Requests for stored items can be made electronically via the catalog, or in person at the Circulation Desk.

As general policy, library reference materials are not allowed to circulate outside of the library. However, there are certain circumstances which may warrant a short term loan of such items to CSUN faculty or staff members. See Faculty Borrowing Privileges for more information.