The Mokena Library is a valuable resource for residents of Mokena, Illinois, offering a wide range of materials, services, and programs to support research and learning. To make the most of this resource, here are 10 tips for easy research at the Mokena Library.
Getting Started with Research at the Mokena Library
The Mokena Library’s website is a great place to start your research, with online catalogs, databases, and digital collections available 24⁄7. You can search for books, articles, and other materials, as well as access digital resources such as e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. The library’s website also offers research guides and tutorials to help you get started with your research.
Tip 1: Use the Online Catalog
The Mokena Library’s online catalog is a powerful tool for finding materials, including books, DVDs, and other items. You can search by keyword, title, author, or subject, and filter your results by format, language, and more. The online catalog also allows you to place holds, renew items, and access your account information.
Tip 2: Explore Digital Collections
The Mokena Library offers a range of digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies. These collections can be accessed through the library’s website or through mobile apps, and offer a convenient way to access materials from the comfort of your own home. Some popular digital collections include OverDrive, Hoopla, and Kanopy.
Tip 3: Use Research Databases
The Mokena Library subscribes to a range of research databases, including encyclopedias, academic journals, and newspaper archives. These databases offer access to high-quality, reliable information on a wide range of topics, and can be accessed through the library’s website. Some popular research databases include JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest.
| Database | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| EBSCO | A range of databases offering access to academic journals, magazines, and newspapers |
| ProQuest | A database offering access to academic journals, newspapers, and other sources |
Tip 4: Ask a Librarian
The Mokena Library’s librarians are always happy to help with your research, whether you’re looking for guidance on finding materials, using databases, or evaluating sources. You can ask a librarian in person, by phone, or through the library’s website, and they will do their best to assist you.
Tip 5: Use Interlibrary Loan
If the Mokena Library doesn’t have the materials you need, you can use the interlibrary loan service to request items from other libraries. This service is free, and allows you to access materials from libraries across the United States. Simply fill out a request form, and the library will do its best to obtain the item for you.
Advanced Research Tips
Once you’ve got the basics down, you can start to explore more advanced research techniques, such as using Boolean operators to refine your searches, creating a research plan to organize your time and resources, and evaluating sources to ensure the credibility and reliability of your information.
Tip 6: Use Boolean Operators
Boolean operators are a powerful tool for refining your searches, allowing you to combine keywords, exclude terms, and narrow your results. Common Boolean operators include AND, OR, and NOT, and can be used in most research databases and online catalogs.
Tip 7: Create a Research Plan
A research plan can help you organize your time and resources, ensuring that you stay on track and meet your goals. Start by defining your research question, then identify the sources you’ll need to consult, and create a timeline for completing your research.
Tip 8: Evaluate Sources
Evaluating sources is a critical part of the research process, helping you to ensure the credibility and reliability of your information. Consider factors such as author credibility, publication date, and bias, and look for sources that are peer-reviewed, scholarly, and up-to-date.
Tip 9: Use Citation Tools
Citation tools can help you to organize your sources, format your citations, and create a bibliography. Popular citation tools include Zotero, EndNote, and Mendeley, and can be accessed through the library’s website or through mobile apps.
Tip 10: Stay Organized
Finally, it’s essential to stay organized throughout the research process, keeping track of your sources, notes, and deadlines. Consider using a research log or notebook to keep everything in one place, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
What are the hours of operation for the Mokena Library?
+The Mokena Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I access the Mokena Library’s digital collections?
+You can access the Mokena Library’s digital collections through the library’s website or through mobile apps such as OverDrive and Hoopla. Simply log in with your library card number and password to access the collections.
Can I use the Mokena Library’s research databases from home?
+Yes, you can access the Mokena Library’s research databases from home using your library card number and password. Simply visit the library’s website and click on the “Research” tab to access the databases.
