Library

How to do Library Research

The following is a general outline on how to do research using the Library. This method may be modified.

Select a topic

Find an Overview of the topic using Encyclopedias, Textbooks or Magazines.

While reading the Overview:

• Look for terms, facts, dates, ideas.

• Look for a bibliography (a list of books, articles and documents on a topic) usually found at the end of a chapter, article or book.

• Use the bibliography to find additional sources on the topic.

• Look to see how the topic is divided into small subtopics (this will help to specify your search).

Narrow or Broaden the topic based on the information found.

Use the Library Catalog to locate Materials (books, Videocassettes,, audiocassettes, etc.) on your topic.
               Catalog may be searched by Author, Title, Subject or Keyword.

Use Electronic Databases to locate articles from magazines or journals.

If needed, consult a Style Manual as a guide for writing research papers.

Please ask for Assistance at the Information Desk.