As a student or researcher at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), having access to a comprehensive library system is crucial for academic success. The EKU Library offers a wide range of resources, services, and tools to support students, faculty, and staff in their research endeavors. In this article, we will provide 10 tips for making the most of the EKU Library's resources and improving your research skills.
Understanding the EKU Library’s Collections and Services
The EKU Library boasts an extensive collection of print and electronic materials, including books, journals, databases, and multimedia resources. To get started with your research, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the library’s collections and services. The library’s website provides a wealth of information on its resources, including research guides, tutorials, and subject-specific databases. Additionally, the library offers interlibrary loan services, allowing you to request materials from other libraries if they are not available in the EKU Library’s collections.
Navigating the Library’s Online Catalog
The EKU Library’s online catalog is a powerful tool for locating books, articles, and other materials. To get the most out of the catalog, use specific keywords and subject headings to search for relevant materials. You can also use the advanced search feature to narrow down your results by factors such as author, title, and publication date. Furthermore, the catalog allows you to request materials from other libraries and renew checked-out items online.
Here is a breakdown of the EKU Library's online catalog features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Basic Search | Search for materials using keywords, authors, or titles |
| Advanced Search | Narrow down search results by factors such as publication date, subject, and format |
| Request Materials | Request items from other libraries or have them held for pickup at the EKU Library |
| Renew Checked-out Items | Renew items online to avoid late fees and extend borrowing periods |
Utilizing Research Guides and Tutorials
The EKU Library offers a range of research guides and tutorials to help you develop your research skills. These resources cover topics such as information literacy, database searching, and citation management. By taking advantage of these resources, you can improve your ability to locate and evaluate sources, as well as properly cite them in your research papers. Additionally, the library’s research assistance service provides one-on-one support from librarians who can help you with your research projects.
Getting Help from Librarians
Librarians at the EKU Library are available to provide research assistance and support. You can ask a librarian for help with finding sources, evaluating information, and citing sources properly. Librarians can also provide individual research consultations to help you with your research projects. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a librarian if you need help with your research – they are there to support you in your academic endeavors.
Here are some ways to get help from librarians:
- Ask a Librarian: Submit a question online and receive a response from a librarian
- Research Consultations: Schedule a one-on-one meeting with a librarian to discuss your research project
- Phone or Email Support: Contact a librarian directly for research assistance and support
Staying Organized with Citation Management Tools
Citation management tools such as Zotero, EndNote, and Mendeley can help you stay organized and properly cite sources in your research papers. These tools allow you to collect and organize sources, format citations, and create bibliographies. By using a citation management tool, you can save time and reduce the risk of plagiarism in your research papers.
Using Interlibrary Loan Services
If the EKU Library does not have a book or article you need, you can use the interlibrary loan service to request it from another library. This service is free and can be accessed through the library’s website. Simply submit a request and the library will work to obtain the item for you. You can also track the status of your requests online and receive notifications when items are available for pickup.
Here is a breakdown of the interlibrary loan service:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Request Items | Submit a request for a book or article not available in the EKU Library's collections |
| Track Status | Monitor the status of your requests online and receive notifications when items are available |
| Pickup and Return | Pick up requested items at the EKU Library and return them by the due date |
Additional Tips for Better Research
In addition to the tips outlined above, here are a few more strategies for improving your research skills:
- Start early: Begin your research project as soon as possible to allow time for finding and evaluating sources
- Use a variety of sources: Incorporate different types of sources, such as books, articles, and primary sources, into your research
- Evaluate sources critically: Assess the credibility and reliability of sources to ensure they are trustworthy and relevant to your research
- Stay organized: Use tools such as citation management software and research guides to stay organized and focused throughout your research project
What is the best way to search the EKU Library’s online catalog?
+The best way to search the EKU Library’s online catalog is to use specific keywords and subject headings. You can also use the advanced search feature to narrow down your results by factors such as author, title, and publication date.
How do I get help from a librarian?
+You can get help from a librarian by submitting a question online, scheduling a research consultation, or contacting a librarian directly by phone or email.
What is the interlibrary loan service and how do I use it?
+The interlibrary loan service allows you to request books or articles not available in the EKU Library’s collections from other libraries. You can submit a request online and track the status of your requests. Items can be picked up at the EKU Library and must be returned by the due date.
