The POA Library is especially strong in astrophysics, biophysics, condensed matter, nuclear and high energy physics, optics, and quantum mechanics. The library also subscribes to a number of print journals and provides access to more than 10,000 electronic journals.
Located on the third floor of Bausch & Lomb Hall, the library provides specialized collections, study space, computers, printing, and course reserves in a convenient location close to classrooms and laboratories. Subject librarians for Physics, Optics, and Astronomy will host open office hours in POA library and are available at Carlson Library.
Hours & Access
During open hours, the library is open to everyone, including non-majors.
After hours, when the doors are locked, access is available by card swipe to declared physics, optics, and astronomy majors, graduate students, faculty, and staff.
Using the Library
POA operates as a self-service library.
You can:
- Browse and use the physics, optics, and astronomy collections
- Check out library materials using the self-checkout station
- Return materials to the exterior book drop or any River Campus Libraries book return
- Use computers, printing, scanning, and photocopying
- Study individually or collaborate with others
- Use the collaborative study room on a first-come, first-served basis
Course reserves for physics, astronomy, and optics are also available in the library.
Research Help
Although the service desk is no longer staffed, research support continues to be available.
You can:
- Meet with a subject librarian during posted open office hours
- Schedule a research consultation with your subject librarian
- Visit Carlson Science & Engineering Library or Rush Rhees Library for in-person assistance
- Contact the Libraries at ask@library.rochester.edu or (585) 275-4441
Subject Librarians
Wendy Way Physics, Astronomy, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, American Sign Language
Arjay Romanowski Optics, Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE), Computer Science, Data Science, Digital Media Studies, Electrical & Computer Engineering
Sue Cardinal Mathematics, Statistics, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering
You can also submit a ticket to the on-call reference librarian.
Technology & Facilities Support
Library technology (computers, printers, scanners): (585) 275-1757 or itsupport@library.rochester.edu
Building or facilities issues: (585) 472-0689 or mculver@pas.rochester.edu
Self-checkout assistance: (585) 275-4471 or ask@library.rochester.edu
Emergency: University Public Safety at (585) 275-3333
Collections, Resources, and Information
