What is the Global Reference Network?
The Global Reference Network (GRN) was established by the Library of Congress. Formerly known as the Collaborative Digital Reference Service (CDRS), this is a network of libraries throughout the world that agree to answer questions for each other, in their areas of subject and collection strength. In order to participate in the GRN, the library fills out a profile. The information in the profile is used to create a match between the question and the library that can best answer the question. Questions are referred to the GRN through web-based email referral; the GRN is currently not accessible using live chat.
Related Questions
- How can we track the progress of a question submitted to the global reference network? Is there a way to view all the questions our institution has referred to the global network and our group (if applicable)?
- How is a question submitted to the global reference network routed to an institution?
- What are the reasons for submitting a question to the global reference network?
