Overview

This mini-lesson reviews how to use the library catalog to find sources. It serves as the foundation for any research that students will complete that requires the use of library sources and will be extended on in other mini-lessons, Canvas modules, and in-person sessions that focus on developing strategies for research.

Objectives

use library tools and resources for finding sources of information

Reflect on Prior Knowledge

Before we get started, take a few minutes to reflect on the following questions. Jot down your thoughts and write down any questions that you have that you hope will be answered throughout this mini-lesson.

Have you ever used the library catalog to find sources for a research project, or just in general?
If so, what successes and challenges did you experience?

Let's Get Started!

In this mini-lesson, we are going to explore strategies and tips for searching for sources using the library catalog.

Overview of the Library's Collections

The Munday Library has over 1.4 million resources in its collection. This vast digital collection includes ebooks, academic journals, newspapers, streaming videos, audiobooks, graphic novels, theatre and poetry performances, special collections, and more!

You can search our catalog using the Library Search, which will enable you to access any digital resource and see what print books are available for check-out.

How to Use the Library Search

Advanced Searching Techniques and Tips

The videos below explain more details on how to specifically find books and peer-reviewed articles.

For more tips and tricks on searching, check out this resource page.

Assignments:

Complete this short Reflective Writing.
Complete this short survey to give us feedback on this mini-lesson.

Additional Resources:

For more information on understanding the research process from a conceptual vantage point, check out the Scholarship as Conversation mini-lesson.
For more information on how to brainstorm a topic, check out the Brainstorming a Topic mini-lesson.
For more information on the characteristics of different types of sources, check out the Types of Sources mini-lesson.
If you would like to meet one-on-one with a librarian for help on any research that you are doing, book an appointment at bit.ly/MundayResearchHelp.