Reference & Research Services

Whether you're brand new to the Dewey Decimal System or a seasoned library user, our Reference Librarians can help you take advantage of all that the library has to offer. Read on for a sampling of our reference services.

Library Orientation

We'd be happy to give you a brief tour of the library and explain how to find materials on the shelves. We have handouts that explain the Dewey Decimal System and a map of the library. Please call us at 222-1190 or stop by the Reference Desk for an individualized orientation.

Reader's Advisory

Looking for something good to read? Let us point you in the right direction!

Title, Author and Subject Searches

You are welcome to search for books in our collection on your own using MINERVA but if you need a hand, we're here to assist you. If you can't remember the title or the author's name or you'd like some guidance on subject headings, please call our Reference Desk at 222-1190 or stop by so we can help you locate the information you desire.

Reference Collection

If you're writing a report, researching a topic of personal interest or just looking for a quick answer, we can help. Our 800+ volume set of non-circulating reference books includes encyclopedias, dictionaries, directories, histories and almanacs. If we can't find what you need in print, we can access a wealth of online resources through MARVEL!

MARVEL! Maine's Virtual Library

MARVEL!, a service of Maine InfoNet, is a vast collection of databases covering a wide range of articles published in magazines, newspapers, journals and other sources. Follow the link to learn more about using MARVEL!

Gorham History

We have an extensive collection of local history materials of use to genealogists, writers, history buffs and the Gorham community. Please ask at the Reference Desk for more information about these valuable resources.

Tax Forms

Each spring we supply a selection of free tax forms for the general public. Common federal forms and booklets are available for you to take home. We are also able to print all State and Federal forms and booklets at the standard printing fees of $0.20/page for B&W and $0.40/page for color. For more information on form availability, please call us at 222-1190.