Conducting research can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of resources and information. The East Shore Library, with its extensive collection and knowledgeable staff, is an ideal place to start your research journey. To help you navigate the library's resources and make the most of your research experience, we have compiled 12 East Shore Library tips for easy research.
Getting Started with Research at East Shore Library
Before diving into your research, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the library’s layout and services. The East Shore Library offers a wide range of resources, including books, journals, databases, and online materials. The library’s website provides a comprehensive guide to its collections, services, and research tools. By exploring the website, you can get an overview of the library’s resources and plan your research strategy. Utilizing the library’s online catalog is a great way to search for specific titles, authors, or subjects, and to access digital resources such as e-books and articles.
Tip 1: Explore the Library’s Online Resources
The East Shore Library provides access to a vast array of online resources, including databases, journals, and e-books. These resources can be accessed through the library’s website, and many of them are available 24⁄7. Database searching is an essential skill for researchers, and the library offers guides and tutorials to help you get started. By exploring the library’s online resources, you can access a wealth of information and conduct research from the comfort of your own home.
Tip 2: Develop a Research Strategy
A well-planned research strategy is crucial to achieving your research goals. Start by defining your research question or topic, and then identify the types of resources you need to consult. The East Shore Library offers a range of research guides and tools to help you develop a research strategy, including topic guides and research tutorials. By taking the time to plan your research, you can ensure that you are using your time effectively and efficiently.
Tip 3: Use the Library’s Interlibrary Loan Service
Sometimes, the resources you need may not be available at the East Shore Library. In these cases, the library’s interlibrary loan service can be a lifesaver. This service allows you to request materials from other libraries, and the library will arrange for them to be delivered to you. Interlibrary loan requests can be made online, and the library’s staff will handle the rest.
| Resource Type | Availability |
|---|---|
| Books | In-library use and borrowing |
| Journals | In-library use and online access |
| Databases | Online access 24/7 |
| E-books | Online access 24/7 |
Organizing and Managing Your Research
Once you have started collecting resources and information, it’s essential to organize and manage them effectively. The East Shore Library offers a range of tools and services to help you with this process, including citation management software and research workshops. By learning how to organize and manage your research, you can save time and reduce stress, and ensure that your research is accurate and reliable.
Tip 4: Use Citation Management Software
Citation management software, such as Zotero or EndNote, can help you to organize and format your citations and references. The East Shore Library offers guides and tutorials on how to use these tools, and the library’s staff can provide additional support and guidance. By using citation management software, you can ensure that your citations and references are accurate and consistent, and that you are giving credit to the original authors and sources.
Tip 5: Attend Research Workshops
The East Shore Library offers a range of research workshops and tutorials, covering topics such as database searching, citation management, and research strategies. These workshops are a great way to learn new skills and to get hands-on practice with the library’s resources and tools. By attending research workshops, you can improve your research skills and confidence, and ensure that you are getting the most out of the library’s resources.
Tip 6: Join a Study Group or Research Community
Conducting research can be a solitary activity, but it doesn’t have to be. The East Shore Library offers a range of study groups and research communities, where you can connect with other researchers and get support and guidance. By joining a study group or research community, you can share ideas and resources, and get feedback and motivation from others.
Tip 7: Use the Library’s Digital Tools
The East Shore Library offers a range of digital tools and services, including online catalogs, databases, and digital repositories. These tools can help you to find and access resources, and to organize and manage your research. By using the library’s digital tools, you can save time and improve your research productivity, and ensure that you are getting the most out of the library’s resources.
Tip 8: Get Help from a Librarian
The East Shore Library’s staff are knowledgeable and experienced, and they can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your research journey. By asking for help from a librarian, you can get personalized assistance with your research, and ensure that you are using the library’s resources and tools effectively.
Tip 9: Use the Library’s Spaces and Facilities
The East Shore Library offers a range of spaces and facilities, including study rooms, computer labs, and collaboration areas. These spaces can help you to focus and be productive, and to work effectively with others. By using the library’s spaces and facilities, you can improve your research experience, and ensure that you are getting the most out of the library’s resources.
Tip 10: Stay Current with Library News and Events
The East Shore Library offers a range of news and events, including workshops, exhibitions, and author talks. By staying current with library news and events, you can stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in your field, and ensure that you are getting the most out of the library’s resources and services.
Tip 11: Use the Library’s Online Tutorials and Guides
The East Shore Library offers a range of online tutorials and guides, covering topics such as database searching, citation management, and research strategies. These tutorials and guides can help you to develop your research skills and confidence, and ensure that you are using the library’s resources and tools effectively.
Tip 12: Evaluate Your Sources Critically
When conducting research, it’s essential to evaluate your sources critically, and to consider factors such as authority, relevance, and accuracy. The East Shore Library offers guides and tutorials on how to evaluate sources, and the library’s staff can provide additional support and guidance. By evaluating your sources critically, you can ensure that your research is accurate and reliable, and that you are giving credit to the original authors and sources.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The East Shore Library is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I access the library’s online resources?
+You can access the library’s online resources by visiting the library’s website and logging in with your library card number and PIN.
Can I request materials from other libraries?
+Yes, you can request materials from other libraries through the library’s interlibrary loan service. Simply fill out the online request form, and the library will arrange for the materials to be delivered to you.
