The Piscataway Library, located in the heart of Piscataway, New Jersey, is a valuable resource for students, researchers, and community members alike. With a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources, the library offers a wealth of information to support various research needs. To make the most of your research experience at the Piscataway Library, we have compiled 10 tips to help you navigate the library's resources and services efficiently.
Getting Started with Research
Before you begin your research, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the library’s layout and services. The Piscataway Library is divided into several sections, including the circulation desk, reference section, and stacks. The library also offers a range of services, including research assistance, interlibrary loan, and technology support. To get started, you can visit the library’s website to explore their online catalog, databases, and research guides.
Tip 1: Utilize the Library’s Online Catalog
The Piscataway Library’s online catalog is a powerful tool for searching and discovering library materials. You can search for books, journals, and other resources by author, title, subject, or keyword. The catalog also allows you to filter your search results by format, language, and publication date. By using the online catalog, you can quickly identify relevant resources and locate them within the library.
Tip 2: Explore the Library’s Databases
The Piscataway Library subscribes to a range of databases that provide access to articles, journals, and other digital resources. These databases are organized by subject and can be accessed through the library’s website. Some popular databases include JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest. By exploring these databases, you can find relevant articles and research studies to support your research needs.
Research Strategies and Techniques
Effective research requires a combination of strategies and techniques. The Piscataway Library offers a range of resources and services to support your research, including research guides, tutorials, and individual assistance. To develop your research skills, you can attend workshops and training sessions offered by the library.
Tip 3: Develop a Research Question
A well-defined research question is essential for focused and effective research. By developing a clear and specific question, you can identify relevant resources and narrow your search results. The Piscataway Library’s research guides and tutorials can help you develop a research question and create a research plan.
Tip 4: Use Boolean Operators
Boolean operators are a powerful tool for refining your search results. By using operators such as AND, OR, and NOT, you can combine search terms and exclude irrelevant results. The Piscataway Library’s online catalog and databases support Boolean operators, allowing you to refine your search results and find relevant resources quickly.
Organizing and Managing Your Research
As you gather resources and information, it’s essential to organize and manage your research effectively. The Piscataway Library offers a range of tools and services to support your research organization, including citation management software and research notebooks.
Tip 5: Use Citation Management Software
Citation management software, such as Zotero or EndNote, can help you organize and format your citations and references. The Piscataway Library offers workshops and training sessions on citation management software, allowing you to learn how to use these tools effectively.
Tip 6: Keep a Research Notebook
A research notebook can help you keep track of your research progress, notes, and ideas. By maintaining a research notebook, you can reflect on your research process and identify areas for improvement. The Piscataway Library offers research notebooks and other organizational tools to support your research.
Accessing and Evaluating Resources
The Piscataway Library offers a range of resources, including books, journals, and digital materials. To access these resources, you can visit the library in person or explore their online collections.
Tip 7: Evaluate Online Sources
When using online sources, it’s essential to evaluate their credibility and reliability. The Piscataway Library offers guides and tutorials on evaluating online sources, including tips on identifying biases, checking sources, and verifying information.
Tip 8: Use Interlibrary Loan Services
The Piscataway Library’s interlibrary loan service allows you to request materials from other libraries. By using this service, you can access resources that are not available within the library’s collections. The library’s interlibrary loan policy and procedures are outlined on their website.
Getting Help and Support
The Piscataway Library offers a range of services and support to help you with your research. From research assistance to technology support, the library’s staff are available to help you navigate their resources and services.
Tip 9: Ask for Research Assistance
The Piscataway Library’s research assistants are available to help you with your research needs. By asking for research assistance, you can get help with finding resources, developing a research question, and evaluating sources. The library’s research assistants can be reached through their website or in person.
Tip 10: Attend Library Workshops and Training Sessions
The Piscataway Library offers a range of workshops and training sessions to support your research skills and knowledge. By attending these sessions, you can learn about new resources and services, develop your research skills, and network with other researchers. The library’s workshop schedule is available on their website.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Catalog | Search for books, journals, and other resources by author, title, subject, or keyword |
| Databases | Access articles, journals, and other digital resources organized by subject |
| Research Guides | Find guides and tutorials on research strategies, techniques, and resources |
| Citation Management Software | Organize and format citations and references using tools like Zotero or EndNote |
| Interlibrary Loan Services | Request materials from other libraries through the library's interlibrary loan service |
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Piscataway Library’s hours of operation vary depending on the day and season. You can check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information on their hours.
How do I access the library’s databases from off-campus?
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To access the library’s databases from off-campus, you will need to log in with your library card or student ID. You can find more information on the library’s website or by contacting their technical support team.
Can I request materials from other libraries?
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Yes, the Piscataway Library offers interlibrary loan services, which allow you to request materials from other libraries. You can find more information on the library’s website or by contacting their interlibrary loan department.
