How to Do Research in an Academic Library
Everyone usually thinks that completing research in a library is a long tiresome task. This is not true. If you stay focused and complete the research process, you will be done in no time. When you visit your local library, you should be prepared to get your research completed in a timely fashion.
The best way to begin a research project is to know your subject matter. If you know what you need to research, the process will be much easier to complete.
You will need to decide what types of resources you want to use. Obviously, an academic library has many books that can be used for research; however, a library offers many other sources such as periodicals, magazines and journals. Academic libraries also offer online access to databases full of articles and information that will help you in your research.
When you go to the academic library, make sure you have paper and a writing utensil. You should also bring your library card, a photo ID (if you don’t have a library card) and money for copies.
As soon as you arrive to the library, you should begin your research. Do not wander around the library. Staying focused on your research will help you complete it in a timely fashion.
Use the library’s online catalog to search by author, subject, keyword or title. If you need help using the online catalog, talk to a librarian or librarian assistant. They are always available to help you find information you need.
Once you find books you can use for your research, write down the call numbers. You will need to look for these numbers on the spines of the books. If you are not sure where a certain book is located, ask the librarian for help or access the library’s map labeling the locations of certain books.
Check out or copy any materials you found that would help you in the research process. You can also print information from the computer databases.
Compile all of your researched materials to gain information about the topic you are studying.