The J. Murrey Atkins Library at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCP) is a vast resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a wide range of materials, services, and expertise to support academic success. To help you make the most of this valuable resource, here are 12 UNCP Library tips for better research.
Understanding the Library’s Resources
The UNCP Library boasts an impressive collection of over 1.5 million volumes, including books, journals, databases, and digital media. The library’s website provides access to a wealth of information, including research guides, tutorials, and subject-specific resources. To get started, familiarize yourself with the library’s layout, including the locations of various collections, study spaces, and service desks.
Navigating the Library’s Website
The UNCP Library website is a powerful tool for researching and discovering new resources. The website features a robust search interface, allowing you to search for books, articles, and other materials using a variety of search parameters. You can also access your library account, renew books, and request materials from other libraries through the website. Take some time to explore the website, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Some of the key resources available on the library's website include:
- Research guides: These guides provide subject-specific resources, including databases, journals, and books, to help you get started with your research.
- Tutorials: The library offers a range of tutorials on topics such as information literacy, citation management, and database searching.
- Subject-specific resources: The library provides access to a wide range of databases, journals, and digital media, organized by subject.
Developing Effective Research Strategies
Conducting effective research requires a combination of skills, including the ability to define a research question, identify relevant sources, and evaluate the credibility of information. The UNCP Library offers a range of resources and services to help you develop these skills, including research consultations, workshops, and online tutorials.
Defining a Research Question
A well-defined research question is essential for conducting effective research. A good research question should be specific, focused, and answerable. To develop a research question, start by brainstorming topics and identifying areas of interest. Then, narrow your focus by asking specific questions and identifying key concepts and keywords.
For example, let's say you're interested in researching the topic of climate change. A possible research question might be: "What are the primary causes of climate change, and what are the potential consequences for global food systems?" This question is specific, focused, and answerable, and it provides a clear direction for your research.
Using Library Databases and Resources
The UNCP Library provides access to a wide range of databases, including academic journals, newspapers, and digital media. Some of the most popular databases include JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest. To get the most out of these resources, take some time to learn about the different databases and how to use them effectively.
Searching Library Databases
Searching library databases requires a combination of skills, including the ability to use keywords, subject headings, and search parameters. To get started, identify the key concepts and keywords related to your research question, and then use these terms to search the databases. You can also use advanced search features, such as Boolean operators and truncation, to refine your search results.
For example, let's say you're searching for articles on the topic of climate change. You might use keywords such as "climate change," "global warming," and "sustainability" to search the databases. You could also use subject headings, such as "environmental science" or "ecology," to find relevant articles.
| Database | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A comprehensive database of academic journals, books, and primary sources in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. |
| EBSCO | A database of academic journals, magazines, and newspapers, covering a wide range of subjects, including business, education, and health. |
| ProQuest | A database of academic journals, newspapers, and digital media, covering subjects such as business, law, and medicine. |
Evaluating Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism
Evaluating sources is a critical step in the research process, as it helps you to identify credible and reliable information. To evaluate sources, consider factors such as the author’s credentials, the publication date, and the purpose of the source. You should also be aware of the potential for plagiarism, and take steps to avoid it, such as properly citing your sources and using quotation marks when necessary.
Avoiding Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a serious academic offense, and it can have significant consequences, including failure in a course or expulsion from the university. To avoid plagiarism, make sure to properly cite your sources, using a recognized citation style, such as MLA or APA. You should also use quotation marks when quoting directly from a source, and provide a reference to the original author.
For example, let's say you're writing a paper on the topic of climate change, and you want to quote a passage from a book by a renowned climate scientist. You might write: "According to Dr. Jane Smith, 'climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time' (Smith, 2020, p. 12). This quote is properly cited, using the APA citation style, and it provides a reference to the original author.
Getting Help from Library Staff
The UNCP Library staff are available to help you with your research, including answering questions, providing research consultations, and assisting with technology. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it, as the library staff are here to support your academic success.
Research Consultations
Research consultations are a great way to get personalized help with your research. These consultations provide one-on-one assistance with your research, including help with searching databases, evaluating sources, and citing references. To schedule a research consultation, simply contact the library and ask to speak with a librarian.
For example, let's say you're working on a research paper, and you're having trouble finding relevant sources. You might schedule a research consultation with a librarian, who can help you to identify relevant databases, search terms, and sources. This can be a huge help, as it provides personalized assistance with your research, and can help you to produce a high-quality paper.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The library’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year and the day of the week. You can check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation.
How do I access library databases from off campus?
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To access library databases from off campus, you will need to log in using your university username and password. You can find more information on accessing library databases from off campus on the library’s website.
Can I get help with my research from a librarian?
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Yes, librarians are available to help you with your research. You can schedule a research consultation with a librarian, or you can ask for help at the library’s service desk.
