Hello! I recently returned from a full week of genealogy research at the Karrmann Library at UW-Platteville, and I offer these comments and tips for those who may be contemplating such a trip and like to know what to expect. I require handicap parking and they have adequate spaces as close to the entrance as possible, but you will have to walk about a half block to the building entrance (level terrain). Staff were EXTREMELY friendly, helpful and attentive ? they check on you periodically to see how you’re doing. They strike a good balance between leaving you alone and being available to help. Before taking elevator or stairs down to the Wisconsin Room (in the basement of the library) to do your research, get a Vendamat (copycard) on the 1st or 2nd floor of the library for $1, and then you add to it in $1, $5, or $10 increments (so have cash in those denominations). This makes your copies 7¢ each; without a copycard, photocopies will be 25¢ each. When you need to take a break, restrooms and water fountain are by the elevator -- just across the hall from the Wisconsin Room (which is in the basement). You can also buy a cup of Starbucks on the main floor. Food and drink are not permitted in the Wisconsin Room. The Wisconsin Room is very warm, so you may be most comfortable in short sleeves. The Wisconsin Room does not have its own public copier within, and since patrons may not remove materials from the room, staff will be doing your copying upstairs with your copycard. They all have a keen eye for detail, and take pains to copy the specific information you indicate, ensure that it copies legibly, etc. and keep the copies with the original source so you can cite the source on the copies without mixup. If you're hoping to get lots of information, tiny post-its, paper clips and mini-stapler may prove handy. For microfilm, there is one machine that prints (using the copycard). There is also one internet unit for use there, which may or may not be attached to a printer (don't know). Don’t try to go there when you are in a big hurry. Everyone must be patient to receive service ? in locating materials, getting assistance on where to next focus your search, in getting your photocopied materials, or waiting to use the printable microfilm reader. The level of staffing depends on the day, class schedules, etc. Write, email or call ahead to inquire about special appointments ? they are accommodating whenever possible if they don’t have classes or special trainings scheduled. I found wonderful accommodations at the Mound View Motel ? independent, family-owned, fairly new, clean, quiet, very affordable, and continental breakfast too! They offered the best price of the 5 motels I called. Just do a Google.com search for Mound View Motel Platteville. Platteville has mainstream places ? Walmart, Kmart, Domino Pizza, Hardees, McDonalds, Taco John's, Subway, Country Kitchen. Better still are the local eateries ? Big Mike’s (subs), Uno #1Pizza, McGregor’s, McDermott’s, and Timber’s, just to name a few I tried. The main grocery store has a deli and Chinese take-out, too. The landscape in the area is full of scenic vistas (quite lovely!) and everyone I met was helpful and genuinely friendly. I had an incredible week there and came back to Michigan with tons of family history information. I’ll be going back again in the fall! Jeanie Stewart