Scope of Services:
The Reference and Research Services Department includes the following programs and services: collection development & outreach, government documents & maps, instruction, and general reference.
Departmental Units:
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Collection Development
Actively builds library collections by identifying and selecting current and retrospective resources, as well as gifts-in-kind. Our subject specialists provide ongoing assessment of collections and resources to determine their suitability in meeting the needs of teaching and research programs. We also provide outreach to academic departments and programs.
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Government Documents & Maps
The NMSU Library participates in the Federal Depository Library Program and receives approximately 67% of the material distributed by the U.S. Government Printing Office; most maps are also received through the Federal government. This Unit's priorities are to provide quality, specialized reference service, free and easy access to Federal government information, both to NMSU students and faculty, and to all residents of New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District.
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Library Instruction
This program is dedicated to fostering information literacy among the NMSU community. In collaboration with other NMSU instructors, we provide in-class and in-library instruction, develop general and assignment-specific instructional materials, create online learning resources, and offer workshops highlighting resources and tools that support researchers’ information needs.
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Reference
Staff members assist researchers with everything from requests for basic information to in-depth assistance with research papers and projects, using the Library’s extensive collection of print and online reference materials (specialized encyclopedias, bibliographies, statistical sources, etc.) and other information sources. The reference desk offers services in person, via phone, email, chat/IM, or by appointment.