Ask a Librarian
In Person
- Reference desk- 2nd floor of the Central Library or information desk at any Branch Library.
- Art and Music desk - 5th floor of the Central Library
By Telephone
Call the Central Library Reference Desk during open hours at 510-981-6148. Or call the Art and Music desk at 510-981-6241. Or call the Children's Desk at 510-981-6223.
By Email
Email reference service provides brief answers to factual questions, suggestions for resources which might help you find what you need, and help with questions specific to Berkeley: local history, government, local institutions. Library staff will respond to email queries within two business days.
Live Online Reference
Get immediate assistance online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. Ask Now is a nationwide, real-time chat service staffed by professional librarians.
Exam Proctoring
The Berkeley Public Library provides proctoring services during open hours. Individuals who wish to have an exam proctored must be a library cardholder in good standing. Please see attached Proctoring Policy 
for more information. Exam Proctor Request Form.
Online Resources
Include a wide range of databases you can access in the library or from home. Staff are available to help you.
Small Business Pages
The Berkeley Public Library carries many resources, in both print and electronic formats, to suit the needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses. Staff are available to help you.
Contact Us
Find email addresses for various library departments and services.
Suggest a Purchase
Give us as much information as you can
Library Hours and Locations