Reference Department

The West Caldwell Public Library Reference & Adult Services Department offers high quality print and electronic resources for our patrons’ informational and research needs. Reference services include but are not limited to: inter-library loan requests, computer assistance, research aid, reader’s advisory, and faxing services. 

If you would like to speak with a Reference Librarian,  you can reach the Reference Department by phone at 973-226-5441 or via email at [email protected].

Reference Services

ESL (English as a Second Language)

Faxing Services

The West Caldwell Public Library Reference staff will provide faxing service upon patron request. Faxing service fees are as follows:

Within NJ

1-3 pages $2.00

4-6 pages $4.00

Outside NJ

1-3 pages $3.00

4-6 pages $6.00

Toll-Free

Flat Rate: $2.00

Incoming

We do not accept incoming faxes.

There is a limit of six pages per fax number. The Library will not receive incoming faxes for patrons.

Unfortunately, the Library is unable to send international faxes at this time.

Proctoring (Exams)

Due to time restraints, we can only offer proctoring services to West Caldwell residents. To see if we have an available librarian, please email [email protected].

Study Rooms

Research Resources

ALSC Books

A collection of books, recordings, apps, websites, and more for children.

The titles included on this site vary widely as to their intended audience—children anywhere from birth up to 14 years of age. We encourage parents and caregivers to actively engage in the selection of media with their children, as reading skills, cognitive and maturity levels, and interests vary from child to child.

https://alsc-awards-shelf.org/

Consumer Reports

Click here to get started. 

From this point, click on Publications in the menu bar and search for “Consumer Reports.

Digital Learn - Practice Digital Skills

https://www.digitallearn.org/

The Public Library Association‘s site, DigitalLearn.org is an online hub for digital literacy support and training. The site launched in June 2013 and builds upon and fosters the work of libraries and community organizations as they work to increase digital literacy across the nation.

Included in DigitalLearn.org is a collection of self-directed tutorials for end-users to increase their digital literacy. Feedback from public library staff directed PLA to develop courses on the most basic skills, such as using a computer, navigating a web site, and searching. Modules are video-based with narration, typically 6 to 22 minutes long, written in plain language (communication learners can understand the first time they hear or read it), and often at an elementary to middle school reading level. DigitalLearn.org provides intentional, foundational instruction to be taken at the pace of the learner. DigitalLearn.org courses can also be adapted to support other teaching methods, including instructor-led classroom instruction and just-in-time individual assistance.

EBSCO Reference

Click here for access. 

This collection provides access to a wide selection of full-text scholarly, reference, and professional eBooks that cover topics including the social sciences, humanities, science, and more.
You must have a BCCLS Library Card to use this catalog outside of the Library.

Gale Virtual Reference Library

Click here for access. 

Gale Virtual Reference Library is a database of encyclopedias and specialized reference sources for research. These reference materials  can be accessed with a West Caldwell Public Library Card.

Jersey Clicks

Click here for access. 

This resource offers a variety of reference materials covering health, science, legal issues, business resources, and continuing education.

Job & Career Accelerator

Click here for access. 

Use this tool to create resumes, explore career options, learn technology and interviewing skills.

Salem Online

Our Salem Online Documents can assist with history, health, or science research projects.

Click here for access inside the library. Click here for access outside the library.

Web Subject Guides

Updated 6/21/2023 RO