This website has a .gov link

The .gov means it’s official.

Louisiana government websites often end in .gov. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a Louisiana government site.

HTTPS Connection

The site is secure.

The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Research Services

Reference staff working at the reference deskResearch Services

The State Library staff provides in-depth reference and research assistance to state employees and officials in person, over the telephone, by mail or through the Ask-a-Librarian service.

For Louisiana related questions, call (225) 342-4914 or 1-888-487-2700, or e-mail at ladept@state.lib.la.us. For all other questions, call (225) 342-4913 or 1-888-487-2700, or e-mail at ref@state.lib.la.us.

Electronic resources

The Library provides access to electronic databases through the Louisiana Library Connection. Reference librarians can assist state employees and officials using the databases. Call the reference desk at (225) 342-4913 Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or e-mail your questions through Ask-a-Librarian.

State Library staff provide both remote (online) and face-to-face training in effective use of the databases to state employees and state agencies. To schedule a session for a minimum of 5 people, contact reference at 225-342-4913.

Useful Web Links

The State Library has compiled a broad range of useful links to information available on the Internet that may be to state employees and officials.

Function and Mission of the Reference Department

Reference librarians respond to questions and assist the public using the State Library's collections of books, federal documents and databases. The librarians provide assistance by telephone, in person at service desks, and by e-mail and regular mail. Reference librarians select materials for the general collection and items for the federal documents depository. Reference librarians select materials for the general collection and items for the federal documents depository. These librarians also train state employees in the use of the Library's electronic resources and conduct workshops on reference work for public library staff.

The Reference Section offers the following resources: