Reference & ILL Services

We're more than just research help! No question is too small for us to help with.

The librarians at the reference desk offer a variety of services. Our job is to help everyone make the most of the library's resources; please ask us your questions! See below for some of the most common services we provide.

What to Read or Watch or Listen to Next

What do I read (or watch or listen to) next?

Just finished a great book and not sure what to read next? Wondering what to try now that you've finished watching your favorite TV series? Looking to expand your musical tastes or find the perfect cookbook? We would love to help! You can fill out our Personalized Picks form or stop by the reference desk for suggestions tailored to your interests.

Requesting Items from Other Libraries

Merrimack Valley Library Consortium (MVLC)

Your library card allows you to request items from any of the 36 libraries in the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium (MVLC). Search the catalog to get started! These are not technically ILL items, but rather network transfers. They typically follow the same loan period and renewal rules as Amesbury items.

Commonwealth Catalog (ComCat)

If you can't find the item you are looking for in an MVLC library, you can expand your search to most other Massachusetts libraries, including some academic libraries, with the Commonwealth Catalog (ComCat). Search and request in this catalog yourself with the help of our Commonwealth Catalog instructions (PDF). Or you can email the reference desk, call the reference desk at 978-388-8148, or visit in person.

Inter-Library Loan (ILL)

If you're looking for something that's hard to find, we may be able to request it from an out-of-state library using our ILL service. This is not available for patrons to search and request in. Call or email the reference desk or visit in person, and we will do our best to find a copy of the item for you to borrow.

Basic Technology Help

  • Do you want to get started with library eBooks or downloadable music, but you're not sure how?
  • Do you need to make copies, scan a document or photo, or print from our computers? Send a fax? We can help!
  • Are you looking to apply?

We can help! Drop by the reference desk during the library's open hours.

For Kindle help, be sure to have your Amazon login information available.

Questions & Answers

Got a question? We can help you find an answer. Whether using our databases or other trusted online or print resources, if you're looking for information, reference librarians can help you find what you need to know. For example, do you need to know the pros and cons of different used car makes and models? Are you looking for books about groundhogs? Do you want to know when to borrow our telescope for a prime view of the next lunar eclipse? If you have a question, we'll do our best to find you the resources to answer it!

More Questions? Check out our other departments!

Children's & Teen Questions

While our reference librarians can help out with kids' and teens' reference needs, the staff at the youth services desk are best equipped to answer questions about school assignments, what to read next, and anything else kid- and teen-related. Email Youth Services, call 978-388-8148, or visit them in the library!

Local History & Archives Questions

While our reference librarians can provide a basic starting point, local history and archives questions are best handled by our local history and archives department, as they have the most knowledge of these collections, many of which are not yet cataloged. Most local history and archives items, including print editions of Amesbury High School (AHS) yearbooks, are available by appointment only. Some yearbooks are available digitally. For appointments and questions, email History or call 978-388-8148 x609.