The Belk Library at Appalachian State University is a comprehensive resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a wide range of services and tools to support academic success. One of the key areas where the Belk Library excels is in providing research assistance, helping individuals to boost their research skills and achieve their academic goals. With a vast collection of physical and digital materials, expert librarians, and innovative technology, the Belk Library is an ideal destination for those seeking to enhance their research capabilities.
Introduction to Research Skills
Developing strong research skills is essential for academic success, as it enables individuals to locate, evaluate, and utilize relevant information effectively. The Belk Library offers various resources and services to help students improve their research skills, including research guides, database tutorials, and one-on-one consultations with experienced librarians. These resources cover a range of topics, from basic research techniques to advanced methods, ensuring that students can find the support they need to excel in their studies.
Research Guides and Tutorials
The Belk Library provides an extensive collection of research guides, which are designed to help students navigate the research process. These guides cover various subjects, including information literacy, database searching, and citation management. Additionally, the library offers tutorials on specific databases and research tools, such as JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest. These resources are available online, allowing students to access them at their convenience and learn at their own pace.
| Research Guide | Description |
|---|---|
| Information Literacy | Introduction to research techniques, including searching, evaluating, and citing sources |
| Database Searching | Guidance on searching databases, including tips for effective searching and avoiding common pitfalls |
| Citation Management | Overview of citation management tools, including Zotero, EndNote, and Mendeley |
Advanced Research Tools and Services
In addition to research guides and tutorials, the Belk Library offers a range of advanced research tools and services. These include interlibrary loan, which allows students to borrow materials from other libraries, and document delivery, which provides electronic access to articles and book chapters. The library also offers data management services, including guidance on data storage, sharing, and preservation.
Collaboration and Study Spaces
The Belk Library provides a variety of collaboration and study spaces, designed to support students in their research and academic pursuits. These spaces include group study rooms, quiet study areas, and computer labs. The library also offers technology checkout, which allows students to borrow laptops, tablets, and other devices for use in the library or at home.
- Group study rooms: equipped with whiteboards, markers, and multimedia equipment
- Quiet study areas: designated spaces for individual study and research
- Computer labs: equipped with software and hardware to support research and academic work
What research services are available at the Belk Library?
+The Belk Library offers a range of research services, including one-on-one consultations, research guides, and database tutorials. Additionally, the library provides interlibrary loan, document delivery, and data management services.
How can I schedule a research consultation with a librarian?
+Research consultations can be scheduled online or in-person. Simply visit the Belk Library website, click on the “Research Help” tab, and select “Schedule a Consultation” to arrange a meeting with a librarian.
What technology is available for checkout at the Belk Library?
+The Belk Library offers a range of technology for checkout, including laptops, tablets, and multimedia equipment. Students can visit the library’s website or stop by the circulation desk to learn more about available technology and checkout procedures.
