Virtual Information Desk

One of the most important roles of a public library is to help you find and choose information. This is called our Reference Service and we can help you find quality information online through our Reference Room. These steps will start you on your way or you can ask us to help you in your search.

Follow our six steps - Research Made Easy!
Library Catalogue - search our online Library Catalogue for books, videos, and other materials.

Start searching the online catalogue.

Get help in using the catalogue.

Learn about subject headings.

Gale Databases - Online Magazine Collection - search our online collections for magazine articles.

Start searching the Gale Databases (requires free library card).

Get help in using these collections.

Learn about subject headings.


Search the Internet using Google or Yahoo.

Get help in searching the Internet.

Learn about evaluating Internet information.

Learn how to cite Internet information in a bibliography.

Ask a Reference Question - have our reference staff help you locate information.

We would also suggest you check out the following:

Selected quality information links.

Research Guides.

To submit a comment about our reference services, or our Virtual Information Desk, email info@parl.ns.ca.