MODULE 2
Beginning Your Research
Outline of the Research Process
Selecting a Research Topic
The Research Project
Remote Access to Library Resources
The Library is a Service Organization
Cataloging and Classification
Publishing and Types of Publications
Scholarly versus Popular Information
Primary versus Secondary Information
Critically Evaluating Information
Assignment: Start your Research Project
Quiz 2
On to Module 3
Glossary
THE LIBRARY IS A SERVICE ORGANIZATION
Not all information can be found on the Internet. You need to use a mix of print and Web based resources when doing research.  When information is well organized and properly indexed it is easer to find both in the library and on the Internet. This lesson explains how print and electronic information is organized in an academic library. You will begin your research in this lesson.

The Library is a Service Organization

An academic library is a service organization which helps students and faculty get the information they need. Library services that every student should know about are described below.

The Library Reference Desk

A library reference desk is the single best place to go to ask for help with your research. The reference desk is always near the reference collection. This collection includes  printed books and periodicals as well as online databases known collectively as reference tools. You will learn more about using these tools to find background information when you read module 3.

Ask a Reference Librarian

Librarians are experts on organizing and finding information. Reference librarians typically offer help
  • in person at the library
  • by telephone
  • by email

Reference librarians are waiting to help you! They can help you find

  • books, articles and Web sites
  • how to use new online databases
  • whatever information you need, when you need it!
Tip: When you ask a librarian for help, describe your project using specific details. For example, if you said "I'm writing a paper for my journalism class about the Salt Lake Olympics Scandal" the reference librarian would be able to direct you to useful newspaper archives, article databases or Web sites. On the other hand, if you asked "Where are books about the Olympics?" you may be misdirected to books on previous Olympic games but with no information about recent events.

Reserve

College and university libraries offer reserve services so that instructors may provide materials for their class to use. Materials placed on reserve may include articles, textbooks, books, videos, lecture notes, syllabi, Web pages, sample exams, reports and manuals. You can generally check out reserve materials for a short period of time (2 hours is typical).

Electronic Reserve

Electronic reserve allows students to view, save or print course materials directly from the library Web site.

Interlibrary Loans

Libraries provide interlibrary loan services to borrow books and articles from other libraries. Interlibrary loan services differ at each library. Contact your library for specific policies. Usually this service is free but it is best to ask at your library before you place an order.

How does it work?

To get a copy of a book or article that your library does not own:
  • copy the accurate reference for material you wish to borrow
  • check the library catalog to determine that the item is not available at your library
  • fill out the interlibrary loan request form, either online or at the library
Tip: Your library will locate the material and request a copy for you to borrow. Items usually arrive within a few days to a week. Occasionally, an item will take longer to arrive. Plan ahead to utilize this service.

Statewide Borrowing

Students can borrow materials from any academic library in Utah by requesting a free library card. You must have a valid ID card from your college or university. You can borrow books from any academic library in Utah and return them to the interlibrary loan department of any other academic library in the state.

Exercises

  1. Go to the Web page for your library. Locate links for the services listed above and learn more about them.
  2. Visit the reference desk in your library and ask the librarians to help you find information on any topic or subject you'd like to know about.
  3. Ask the reference librarian to give you a list of library hours, phone numbers and the email address if they offer email reference. Keep this information for your own use.

Continue - Cataloging and Classification

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