Humanities and Social Sciences Library > Collections & Reading Rooms > General Research Division

Reference Services

Professional librarians and subject specialists in the General Research Division are available to help you find materials in the collections, recommend search strategies and assist you with other aspects of your research. The questions you ask, including the books you request, are confidential. Staff may discuss your question with a co-worker to get research assistance, but we will not identify your question to anyone outside the library unless you tell us to do so.

There are a variety of convenient ways to take advantage of our reference services:

In Person
The main reference desk is located in the Bill Blass Public Catalog Room located on the third floor, Room 315. Our experienced staff will help you get started with your research and give you tips on how to use the library's resources. The desk is staffed at all times when the library is open. Hours

Via E-mail
Send us your questions by e-mail. We will respond to your question in most cases, within two business days. The address is: grdref@nypl.org

By Phone
Our telephone reference service is available from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. You may also leave a message with your reference question when the library is closed. We will respond to your question in most cases, within two business days. The telephone number is: (212) 930-0830

Schedule a Research Consultation
Meet with a librarian to discuss your research project. Schedule an appointment at the reference desk in Room 315 or by e-mail at grdref@nypl.org.

Write Us a Letter
Send your questions by mail. Please address your envelope to:
Reference Letters
The New York Public Library
General Research Division, Room 315
Fifth Avenue & 42nd Street
New York, NY 10018-2788