The Reference and Information Services Department (RISD), with access to the largest and most comprehensive reference collection on campus, is the major information center in the University of Texas Libraries. The reference collection of print and electronic sources includes general reference tools, materials in many cognate and interdisciplinary fields, and national and trade bibliographies. Also included are in-depth reference materials in the humanities and social sciences and such professional fields as business and education. Documents reference materials for U.S. government and U.N. publications are part of the reference collection. The Reference Department is located in the Perry-Castañeda Library (PCL) which is on the corner of 21st and Speedway Streets on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Our telephone number is (512) 495-4250.

RISD Units, Collections, and Services

• Reference Collection
• Documents Collection
• Electronic Information Center
• Reference Staff Directory
• Inter-Library Service
• Periodicals Unit
• Map Collection
• Additional Services
• Useful Reference Sites

Service Desks

Information Desk (PCL Lobby):

Staff answer questions about UT Libraries locations and services, location of materials and services within the Perry-Castañeda Library, use of the UTCAT and UTNetCAT online catalogs, and resources available through UT Library Online, the central access point for electronic information available through the UT Libraries. After determining users' specific needs staff refer them to other locations as appropriate. A comprehensive selection of printed handouts plus electronic information about the General Libraries is available at the Information Desk; users can also ask for assistance using the computers available in the lobby area.  Information Desk staff can assist users who wish to use ethernet ports to connect their laptop computers. Staff assist patrons who need help with the network printer and the copy/print card vending station located in the lobby. The Information Desk is regularly staffed on weekdays and weekend afternoons except for holidays and intersessions.
 
 

• Reference and Information Desk (PCL 2.200):

Staff provide services such as directions and library information. Informal instruction in the organization and use of print and electronic library tools is provided. More extensive individual instruction in library methodology and bibliographic research is given at the desk as time permits or later by appointment. Bibliographic verification of materials is also provided. The desk is regularly staffed on weekdays, evenings, and weekends. Telephone reference service is provided M-Th. 8am-10pm, Fri. 8am-5pm at (512) 495-4250.

Regular hours the desk is staffed long semesters are:

Monday-Thursday	8:00 a.m. -  10:00 p.m.
Friday	8:00 a.m. -   5:00 p.m.
Saturday	12:00 noon -   6:00 p.m.
Sunday	12:00 noon -  10:00 p.m.