Reference and Loan Library Reference Staff

Toll-Free Number: 1-888-542-5543 (Choose 5 for Reference services)

Jeanne Otteson, Reference Librarian

m.jeanne.otteson@dpi.wi.gov, 608-224-6164

Jeanne is the staff "cybrarian" who is responsible for intercepting and answering a wide array of e-reference questions that come via the Wisconsin.gov State Portal website. Every day that Jeanne opens the Portal E-Mail Box is a new adventure as she hunts for answers to questions about the turkey hunting season, health insurance for the unemployed, state statutes, or possibly, the guidelines for disposable bingo cards. Jeanne also works on all types of traditional reference requests, but particularly enjoys requests related to Wisconsin history, geography, people and politics.

Allison Coshenet, Reference Librarian

allison.coshenet@dpi.wi.gov, 608-224-5393

Allison joined the Reference and Loan Library in 2008. In addition to providing reference service she is actively involved in promoting AskAway, the state’s virtual reference program. Her primary areas of expertise include business, accounting, and computer science. She also enjoys researching questions related to literature, religion and American history.

Martha Berninger, Head of Reference and Interlibrary Loan

martha.berninger@dpi.wi.gov, 608-224-6168

Martha has been head of reference and interlibrary loan services since November, 2006. She has worked in public, academic, and special libraries. Her subject strengths include business management, finance, library science, humanities, and antiques. Martha enjoys leading the highly skilled, experienced Reference team.