Reference Assistance

Ask your question. Get the answer. Be informed.

In person or online, late night or during business hours, the Barrington Area Library offers many free, convenient ways to ask reference questions. Your question will be answered by professional librarians with master’s degrees from universities and colleges accredited by the American Library Association or by trained assistant librarians with bachelor's degrees.

In person

Librarians in Adult Services and Young People’s Services are available to answer your questions during the following hours:
Monday–Friday: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00–5:00 p.m.

Over the phone

Librarians in Adult Services and Young People’s Services are available to answer your questions during library hours.
Phone: 847-382-1300
TTY: 847-382-1301

A librarian at Night Owl Reference Service will answer your questions after library hours until midnight.

Phone: 847-382-1303.
Monday–Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight
Saturday–Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight

Search the Library’s Web Page

Click Find Information for current information from web sites, newspapers, magazines, and subject databases.
Click NorthStarNet Barrington Area or Barrington Area Calendar of Events for information about the Barrington area.

Mail a Letter

Librarians in Adult Services or Young People’s Services will send you the information you need.
Barrington Area Library
505 N. Northwest Highway
Barrington, IL 60010-3399