10 Norwalk Ct Library Tips For Easy Research

The Norwalk Ct Library is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike, offering a wide range of materials, services, and programs to support research, learning, and personal enrichment. To help you make the most of your library experience, we've compiled a list of 10 tips for easy research at the Norwalk Ct Library.

Getting Started with Research at the Norwalk Ct Library

Before you begin your research, it’s essential to understand the library’s layout, collections, and services. The Norwalk Ct Library is located at 1 Belden Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850, and is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. The library’s collections include over 150,000 books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases, as well as a variety of programs and services for adults, children, and teens.

Tip 1: Utilize the Library’s Online Catalog

The Norwalk Ct Library’s online catalog is a powerful tool for finding materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, and other resources. You can search the catalog by keyword, title, author, or subject, and filter your results by format, language, and audience. To access the online catalog, visit the library’s website at www.norwalklibrary.org and click on the “Catalog” tab.

Tip 2: Explore the Library’s Databases and Digital Collections

The Norwalk Ct Library offers a range of databases and digital collections, including OverDrive for e-books and audiobooks, Hoover’s for business research, and Lynda.com for online learning. These resources can be accessed from the library’s website, and many are available remotely with a valid library card. For example, the library’s NewsBank database provides access to current and historical newspapers, including the Norwalk Hour and the Connecticut Post.

Tip 3: Ask a Librarian for Help

The librarians at the Norwalk Ct Library are happy to assist you with your research, whether you’re looking for help finding materials, using the library’s databases, or navigating the library’s collections. You can ask for help in person, by phone, or through the library’s online chat service. For example, if you’re researching a topic for a school project, a librarian can help you find relevant books, articles, and online resources.

Tip 4: Use the Library’s Interlibrary Loan Service

If the Norwalk Ct Library doesn’t have the material you need, you can request it through the library’s interlibrary loan service. This service allows you to borrow materials from other libraries in Connecticut and across the country. To request an interlibrary loan, visit the library’s website and click on the “Interlibrary Loan” tab.

Tip 5: Take Advantage of the Library’s Research Guides

The Norwalk Ct Library offers a range of research guides, which provide tips and resources for researching specific topics, such as genealogy, business, and healthcare. These guides can be accessed from the library’s website and can help you get started with your research. For example, the library’s genealogy research guide provides information on how to research your family history, including tips on how to use online resources such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org.

Tip 6: Use the Library’s Meeting and Study Rooms

The Norwalk Ct Library has several meeting and study rooms available for use, including a large meeting room that can accommodate up to 100 people. These rooms can be reserved in advance and are perfect for group study sessions, meetings, and presentations. To reserve a meeting or study room, visit the library’s website and click on the “Meeting and Study Rooms” tab.

Tip 7: Attend a Library Program or Event

The Norwalk Ct Library offers a range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author talks, book clubs, and technology workshops. These programs can help you learn new skills, meet new people, and stay engaged with your community. To view a list of upcoming programs and events, visit the library’s website and click on the “Events” tab.

Tip 8: Get Help with Technology

The Norwalk Ct Library offers a range of technology resources, including computers, printers, and scanners. If you need help using these resources, the library’s staff is happy to assist you. The library also offers technology workshops and one-on-one instruction to help you improve your technology skills. For example, the library’s technology workshop on Microsoft Office can help you learn how to use popular software applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Tip 9: Access the Library’s Wi-Fi and Digital Media

The Norwalk Ct Library offers free Wi-Fi and digital media, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. You can access these resources from the library’s website or through the library’s mobile app. For example, the library’s OverDrive service allows you to borrow and download e-books and audiobooks to your device.

Tip 10: Stay Up-to-Date with Library News and Events

To stay up-to-date with library news and events, be sure to follow the Norwalk Ct Library on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also sign up for the library’s email newsletter, which provides information on upcoming programs, new materials, and library services. To sign up for the newsletter, visit the library’s website and click on the “Newsletter” tab.