Reference Help

Reference service is individualized help in finding a specific piece of information, or locating specific items or materials on a topic. The Doe/ Moffitt Libraries provide research and reference help for current UC Berkeley and UC system students, as well as the public. Our emphasis is on the humanities, social sciences, area studies, and government information resources.

Our reference desks are open most weekdays, evenings and during the day on weekends. Check service hours for the current schedule.

• Visit a Reference Desk
• Doe Library Reference Desk (Doe Library, Floor 2, 510-642-6657)
• Moffitt Library Reference Desk (Moffitt Library, Floor 3)
• Art History/Classics Library Reference Desk (Doe Library, Floor 4)
• Media Resources Center Reference Desk (Moffitt Library)
• South/Southeast Asia Library Reference Desk (120 Doe Library)


• Make an Appontment with a Reference Specialist
• Research Advisory Service (UCB undergraduates only)
• Schedule a reference consultation appointment with a subject liaison


• Email a Reference Question
• Ask a Reference Question
• Government Info E-mail Reference
• Media Resources Center E-mail Reference
• Email a subject liaison directly for reference help in their respective area


• Chat with a Reference Librarian
• Government Info IM Reference
• Chat reference is now always open at 24/7 Live Chat


• Text a Cal Librarian
• Text the library at 66746, starting your message with the keyword ASKCAL.