Overview of Services at the Swain Library

Reference & Instruction

Online Resources

The Swain Library’s reference collection contains a wide variety of printed resources in chemistry and chemical engineering. Most indexes and a growing number of other types of reference materials are becoming available online. However, licensing agreements limit the use of many online resources (e.g. Chemical Abstracts Online) to current Stanford students, faculty, and staff.

Getting Help

During regular business hours, drop by the Swain Library Circulation Desk with any questions about using the library, finding specific information, using print or electronic resources, or planning your research strategy. Our experienced staff can save you time by helping you locate the right information source for your needs. Current Stanford students, faculty, and staff are welcome to submit brief reference questions, or questions about Swain Library holdings by sending a note to Ask a Librarian. To arrange group instruction and specialized training in chemical and chemical engineering information sources, contact Grace Baysinger, Swain Librarian (graceb@stanford.edu, 650-725-1039).

Eligible Users

Reference is offered equally to Stanford students, faculty, and staff, from any department on campus as well as to onsite UC faculty and students. Online search services are limited to current Stanford students, faculty, and staff. Visitors are welcome to use the collection; reference help is not available.

Reference Hours

Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm for brief assistance; indepth help by appointment. Contact Grace Baysinger, Swain Librarian, (graceb@stanford.edu, 650-725-1039) if you need an appointment.

Orientation Tours

Orientation tours are offered Wednesdays from 3:00–3:45 p.m. Selected users may be eligible for after-hours access after completing a tour. Consult Swain’s After-Hours Access page for more details.

Library Workshops

The Swain Library as well as other libraries and units offer a variety of workshops on campus. To view currrent offerings, please see Tours and Workshops. To arrange group instruction and specialized training in chemical and chemical engineering information sources, contact Grace Baysinger, Swain Librarian (graceb@stanford.edu, 650-725-1039).