Reference Services

About service: 

This service provides assistance in locating information available in the library and other information sources, both domestically and internationally. It includes guidance and instruction on how to properly use library resources and information, as well as disseminating and exchanging information to ensure users are informed and can effectively utilize available resources. The service focuses on user-centric support, utilizing information technology to enhance accuracy, speed, and comprehensive internet searches, making it easier for users to find the information they need efficiently and correctly. Users can access question-answering and research assistance through various channels, including in-person visits, telephone, or the library’s website.

Eligibility for Service:

• Current students
• faculty members
• researchers
• staff of Khon Kaen University
• General public

Access the Service:

1. In-Person: Visit the Research and Inquiry Assistance Desk on the 2nd floor of the Information Center Building.
2. Phone: Call +66 93 592 2556 or internal extension 42630.
3. Live Chat: Available on the library’s website: https://library.kku.ac.th
4. Email: Send inquiries to library.inbox@kku.ac.th

Reference Services include:

1. Answering User Inquiries
   Assist users in finding the information they need from print materials, audiovisual resources, and other relevant sources within the central library, faculty libraries, or affiliated institutions both inside and outside Khon Kaen University.
2. Telephone and Email Inquiries
   Provide assistance through phone calls and emails, allowing users to ask questions or seek information from librarians without needing to visit in person.
3. Information Retrieval from Databases
   Help users search for information available in the library and various databases, including the library’s WebOPAC, electronic databases, and internet resources.
4. Assistance in Locating Physical Documents
   Aid users in finding physical documents that are not found on the shelves. Users can submit a request form at the bookshelves or the Reference and Research Assistance Desk. Librarians will follow up with the book shelving staff, track the search process, and notify users of the results, usually within 3 business days.
5. Specialized Bibliographic Compilation
   Provide bibliographic lists for faculty, staff, and researchers at Khon Kaen University to support teaching and research. This includes compiling bibliographies of theses, educational loan funds, and other relevant publications available in the university library.
6. Library Usage Guidance and Search Tools
   Introduce new users to library resources, search methods, and tools such as WebOPAC and electronic databases. This helps users independently utilize the library’s resources and seek further assistance from librarians if needed.
7. Academic Work Guidance
   Offer advice on creating academic work, including reports, textbooks, articles, and theses. Guidance includes document search, citation styles, and formatting. Additionally, help users compile bibliographies and identify appropriate journals for publishing their work.
8. Information Source Recommendations
   Assist users in locating external information sources, such as internet resources, institutions, organizations, and individuals, that meet their needs.
9. Cited Reference Search
   Help users find citations of their academic work using electronic databases provided by the library.
10. Special Resource Loan Services
    Provide access to resources that are normally not available for loan, such as reference books and restricted theses. Librarians assess the necessity and appropriateness of allowing such loans based on specific criteria.
11. Interlibrary Loan Services
    Act as an intermediary in processing interlibrary loan requests, facilitating faster and more efficient access to resources across libraries.
12. Researcher Visits
    Visit research centers to exchange knowledge, experiences, and provide support with information resources and research tools to assist researchers.
13. Information Clinic for Learning, Teaching, and Research
    Offer specialized consultation, support, and training in accessing and utilizing information. Services include group training sessions and classroom instruction in collaboration with academic departments to promote lifelong learning.

For further details or to access these services, please contact the library directly.