Writing 2 Library Guide
Library research goals:
To effectively use the library's databases
To get information written by scholars and experts on my research paper topic
Objectives:
1. Compile a list of keywords
2. Adjust word searches for each database
3. Determine the right database to use, for example: Which database do I use? What's in each database?
(Help?)
1. Keywords List (Use this worksheet to organize your keywords)
Keywords are important for finding the right sources.
Having too few words, or words that you have not verified with an encyclopedia, may turn up poor results.
Either of the following 2 databases will help you find good keywords and even ideas for constructing your topic:
- Gale Virtual Reference Library
- CQ Researcher
- (Note, these databases are for introducing you to topics and problems. This is background information for learning about your topic. Use the databases in Part 3 to find articles and books to cite in your paper)
Once you have read about your topic in the databases above start compiling a list of words you want to look up.
So, if you read about the effect of global warming on food production, make sure to prepare to search for articles and books in the following ways:
- Single out the main ideas in the problem statement, for example effect of global warming on food production
- Make sure to add backup words (synonyms) to your list. That way, if the words you've used don't work, you can replace them with others to continue searching on the same topic, for example, global warming, climate change, etc.
- Possible searches from this example are: global warming and food production
climate change and agriculture
(plus anything else you found in the encyclopedias)
2. Entering words into a database search
Unlike Google searches, library database searches must be more structured.
This means becoming familiar with and as well as entering words in the right search box
Databases will have either:
One search box - If so, add and to your search, for example: teenage pregnancy AND dropouts
or
Several search boxes - If so, enter each word on a seperate line. Since teenage pregnancy is a phrase, it would go on one line and dropouts in the next line
3. Library databases you will be using (Use this worksheet to keep track of the sources you find)
Use the keywords from #1 and follow the steps from #2 in these databases.
Help?
Q: What is a library account?
A: Your student ID is your library card. Start your account at the check-out desk in either library
Q: How do I do research from "off campus?"
A: Go to http://oca.ucsc.edu. The login is your UCSC ID barcode number, but you need to start your library account first.
Q: How do I view an article? What is UC-eLinks?
A: Most databases allow you to view/save the full article, click on the title or look for HTML or PDF links to open up the article. When the database doesn't have the full article (but is showing you a citation), use UC-eLinks for other options.
Q: How do I get something that UCSC Library doesn't own?
A: You can order books and articles. Use Mevly, UC-eLinks, or the order forms from Citation Linker to get materials.
Q: How do I finding materials on the library shelves?
A: First, get the call number and location. Location tells you the library (McH or S&E) and area (Stacks or Ref) the book is shelved in. The call number is the filing location (which floor or library) for the book. There are signs and floor maps to help you find these. If you need extra help, ask at one of the desks.
Q: Who can help me with research questions?
A: Go to http://library.ucsc.edu/info/askalibrarian.html for 24/7 Instant Message or visit, call or e-mail the UCSC reference desk
Contact me with any questions:
Annette Marines,
Instruction Librarian
amarines @ ucsc.edu
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