How Can I Learn More About Doing Research And Using The University Libraries?

There are lots of ways to learn more. Some will be helpful if you just need an introduction to what is where in the University Libraries. Others will be more useful if you are doing research. The options listed below should fit almost any need.

General Introductions to the University Libraries

TOURS:

The University Library has a Self Guided Tour booklet available in the lobby for you to pick up and follow. A virtual tour of this Library is also very helpful. You may want to review the Dewey Library Virtual Tour as well.

GUIDES:

All three libraries make available a wide variety of printed guides that give general information. There are Fact Sheets about various departments and services, and informational sheets such as an overview of the three libraries and a guide to the Libraries’ web site. Some of these guides are also available on the web.

Learning to Do Research

TUTORIALS:

The University Libraries offer several basic interactive tutorials, Researching 101 and Evaluating Internet Sites 101, that you can work through at your own pace.

COURSES AND CLASSES:

The one credit course, UNL 205, is a great introduction to doing research. It is offered every quarter during the fall and spring semesters, and lasts just 7 weeks. The libraries also offer 60 and 90 minute classes on a variety of topics at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. Check out the free online Research Strategies textbook, by William Badke.

GUIDES:

Many of the guides referred to above help you learn how to use the library’s online catalog and electronic databases, others provide lists of key resources in different fields. Check out what is on the web, there are more in print at the three libraries.

Subject-Based Research

GETTING STARTED:

If you know the basics but aren’t sure where to find resources on a subject for a particular class or project, start with the Subject Pages & Guides page on the Libraries’ web site. Subject specialists have selected key Internet resources, indexes, and electronic journals that will let you start researching your topic.

Need More Help?

REFERENCE DESK

Librarians are available to help you as you as you start your research or once you are in the thick of it. Each library provides reference assistance. Check for the hours that reference assistance is available.

CUSTOMIZED SEARCH SERVICE

If you are having trouble finding resources on your topic, you can make an appointment with a librarian to have a search done on databases not otherwise available. Through the Customized Search Service, librarians will also help you develop a search strategy or provide individualized instruction, depending on your need. Make an appointment at the reference desk of the University Library, or call (518) 442-3556.

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University Library

Last reviewed 4/2007