Conducting research can be a daunting task, especially when navigating through vast amounts of information. The Whitmore Library, with its extensive collection of resources, is an ideal place to start your research journey. To make the most out of your research experience, we have compiled a list of 10 tips to help you navigate the library's resources with ease.
Understanding the Library’s Layout
The Whitmore Library is divided into several sections, each catering to different research needs. The library’s layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation, with clear signage and directories to help you find the resources you need. The library’s collections include a vast array of books, journals, databases, and other materials that can be accessed through the library’s online catalog or by visiting the physical shelves.
Utilizing the Library’s Online Resources
The Whitmore Library offers a wide range of online resources, including databases, e-books, and online journals. These resources can be accessed through the library’s website, using your library card or student ID. Some of the popular online resources include JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest, which provide access to a vast array of academic articles, research papers, and books. To get started, simply visit the library’s website and browse through the available resources or use the search function to find specific materials.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| EBSCO | A database provider offering a wide range of academic and research resources |
| ProQuest | A database provider offering access to academic journals, newspapers, and other resources |
Effective Search Strategies
Developing effective search strategies is crucial to finding relevant information quickly. The Whitmore Library offers various search tools, including the online catalog and database search functions. To get started, try using Boolean operators such as AND, OR, and NOT to refine your search results. You can also use quotes to search for exact phrases or asterisks to search for variations of a word.
Interlibrary Loan Services
In cases where the Whitmore Library does not have the resources you need, you can take advantage of the interlibrary loan services. This service allows you to borrow materials from other libraries, both locally and nationally. To use this service, simply fill out the interlibrary loan request form, available on the library’s website, and wait for the materials to be delivered to the library.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when using the interlibrary loan services:
- Allow sufficient time for delivery, as interlibrary loan requests can take several days to process
- Be sure to check the library's catalog before submitting an interlibrary loan request, as the material may be available locally
- Use the interlibrary loan services for materials that are not available through the library's online resources or physical collections
Research Assistance
The Whitmore Library offers research assistance to help you with your research needs. The library's reference desk is staffed by knowledgeable librarians who can provide guidance on search strategies, database selection, and citation management. You can also schedule a research consultation with a librarian to discuss your research project in more detail.
Citation Management Tools
Proper citation is essential to academic research, and the Whitmore Library offers various tools to help you manage your citations. Some popular citation management tools include EndNote, Zotero, and Mendeley. These tools allow you to organize your sources, format your citations, and create bibliographies with ease.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| EndNote | A commercial citation management tool offering advanced features and integration with Microsoft Word |
| Zotero | A free, open-source citation management tool offering a user-friendly interface and integration with various word processors |
| Mendeley | A free citation management tool offering a user-friendly interface, collaboration features, and integration with various word processors |
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when using the Whitmore Library:
- Plan your research in advance, allowing sufficient time to find and access the resources you need
- Use the library’s study spaces and equipment, such as computers, printers, and scanners, to facilitate your research
- Take advantage of the library’s workshops and training sessions to improve your research skills and learn about new resources and tools
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Whitmore Library is open Monday through Thursday from 8am to 10pm, Friday from 8am to 5pm, and Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The library is closed on Sundays and holidays.
How do I access the library’s online resources?
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To access the library’s online resources, simply visit the library’s website and log in with your library card or student ID. You can then browse through the available resources or use the search function to find specific materials.
Can I request materials from other libraries?
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Yes, you can request materials from other libraries through the interlibrary loan services. Simply fill out the interlibrary loan request form, available on the library’s website, and wait for the materials to be delivered to the library.
