Getting Started With Research-A Self-Help Guide  

"The librarians here are awsome, use them!"
Ashley '09

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Jamal '12

"There should be a huge sign by the reference desk that says 'Start here first.'"
Cindy '10

Library research can be challenging. There is no ONE right way to do it. Click around in this guide to learn the basics and, as always, feel free to

Ask a Librarian.

Our main job as reference librarians is to help you navigate the increasingly varied constantly changing world of information. We are friendly, sympathetic, and have the potential to save you a lot of time and to get you in touch with the sources that will make your professors smile.

The Getting Started section covers topic selection, research questions and back ground materials.

The Gather Information section covers strategies for finding the best and most appropriate sources for research -- books, articles, web sites, and etc.

The Using Information covers fair use -- how to avoid plagiarism and how to correctly cite sources.