The Schenectady County Public Library, affectionately known as the Schdy Library, is a treasure trove of knowledge and information, offering a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. Whether you're a student, researcher, or simply a curious individual, the Schdy Library is an excellent place to start your research journey. In this article, we will provide you with 10 tips to help you navigate the library's resources and make your research experience easier and more efficient.
Getting Familiar with the Library’s Resources
Before you start your research, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the library’s resources and services. The Schdy Library offers a vast collection of books, journals, newspapers, and digital media, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. You can access the library’s catalog online or visit the library in person to explore the shelves and discover new resources. Utilizing the library’s online catalog can help you quickly locate specific titles or topics, while interlibrary loan services can provide you with access to materials from other libraries.
Using the Library’s Databases and Online Resources
The Schdy Library subscribes to a wide range of databases and online resources, including academic journals, newspapers, and specialized databases. These resources can be accessed through the library’s website, and many of them are available remotely with a library card. Mastering the library’s database search tools can help you quickly find relevant information, while evaluating online sources can ensure that you’re using credible and trustworthy information.
The following table provides an overview of some of the library's databases and online resources:
| Database/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| ProQuest | A database of newspapers, journals, and other publications |
| OverDrive | A digital library of e-books and audiobooks |
Organizing Your Research and Staying Focused
Once you’ve started your research, it’s essential to stay organized and focused. This can be achieved by creating a research plan, which outlines your research goals, objectives, and timeline. You can also use citation management tools to keep track of your sources and format your citations correctly.
Using Library Services to Enhance Your Research
The Schdy Library offers a range of services to support your research, including research assistance, writing help, and technology support. You can schedule a research consultation with a librarian to get personalized help with your research project, or attend a workshop or seminar to learn new skills and stay up-to-date with the latest research trends.
Some of the library's services include:
- Research assistance: Get help with finding sources, evaluating information, and citing sources correctly
- Writing help: Get feedback on your writing and help with grammar, syntax, and style
- Technology support: Get help with using the library's databases, online resources, and technology tools
Staying Up-to-Date with the Latest Research Trends
To stay current with the latest research trends and developments, you can follow the library’s social media accounts or subscribe to the library’s newsletter. You can also attend library events and workshops to learn about new resources and services, and to network with other researchers and scholars.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Schdy 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 library’s databases and online resources remotely?
+You can access the library’s databases and online resources remotely by visiting the library’s website and logging in with your library card number and PIN.
Can I get help with my research project from a librarian?
+Yes, you can schedule a research consultation with a librarian to get personalized help with your research project. You can also get help through the library’s online chat service or by visiting the library in person.
