"How To" Guide to the SDZWA Library's Collections & Services: Library Services

What reference services do you provide? Who can use them?

We help SDZWA staff and volunteers:

• Locate a specific book or article
• Identify relevant resources on a topic of interest
• Find an answer to a question
• Find a book you'd enjoy reading
• Find a book to assign as an annual goal

Librarians are trained in many search tools, techniques, and resources. Please don't hesitate to use our services!

How do I submit a research request? How long does it take?

Email, call 760-747-8702 x5736, or visit the Library. Our regular hours are M-F 8:00-4:30.

We can often provide an answer the same day for simple requests. Large or complex research projects may take several days to a week. It's always helpful to contact us well in advance of a need. We can get you started in the right direction with a list of relevant resources, and we may be able to dig deeper if time permits.

What training do you provide?

We provide individual and group training to SDZWA staff and volunteers on a variety of topics, including:

• What we offer. Tour our collections and website; learn about our fact sheets, newsletters, reference services, and more.
• Finding items. Learn how to locate books and articles at the Library and on our website
• In-depth research. Learn how to find reliable information on a subject, from journals, books, and websites
• Honing search skills. Get tips on how to optimize your Google searches; learn about other useful tools and resources.

How do I request individual assistance?

Please email us, call 760-747-8702 x5736, or visit the Library. Our regular hours are M-F 8:00-4:30.

• In the Library -- one of our librarians will be happy to work with you in person.
  • Appointments are appreciated but not required.
• Pop-Up Library -- visit during our monthly trips to the Zoo and the Park.
  • Upcoming dates and locations are listed in the latest Library newsletter.
• By phone or email  -- we can answer questions, troubleshoot and guide you through search options
  • It helps if you have a computer handy.
• Zoom appointment -- we can answer questions, troubleshoot and guide you through search options

How do I request a presentation for my group? Can it be at another location?

Email or call us at 760-747-8702 x5736 to request a group tour, presentation, or training session.

The Library makes a fun field trip for departments or volunteer groups, but we're also happy to visit you!

Library tours

• We can accommodate groups of different sizes.
  • If your group has more than 15 people, it might be a good idea to set up two or more tours.
• Advance notice is appreciated.

Training sessions in the Library

• We can accommodate groups of different sizes.
  • Small groups are ideal, to give everyone an opportunity to see the monitor and ask questions.
  • If your group has more than 8 people, it might be a good idea to set up two or more sessions.
• Please give us at least 2 weeks advance notice.
  • Let us know your group's area of interest, and any information methods/needs/challenges to focus on.

Presentations at your location

• We can accommodate groups of different sizes.
• Please give us at least 2 weeks advance notice.
  • Let us know your group's area of interest, and any information needs to focus on.
• What you'll need to provide
  • For small groups (2-4 people). A computer, preferably with a large monitor
  • For medium or large groups. A projector and screen (we'll bring a laptop)
  • Internet access: required for training sessions; recommended for general library presentations
  • Seating that lets everyone view the presentation
• We can also use Zoom