LibGuides: Library Research: Welcome

Guide to Library Research

Highlighted Databases

Niche Academy This link opens in a new window
Collection of tutorials on computer and life skills, customer service, information literacy, research skills, and other areas of interest.
PrepSTEP This link opens in a new window
Whether they are looking to improve core academic skills, score higher on college placement tests, explore careers, prepare for occupational exams or build workplace skills, students can achieve their goals using PrepSTEP.
Opposing Viewpoints in Context This link opens in a new window
Access viewpoint articles, topic overviews, statistics, primary documents, links to web sites, and full-text magazine and newspaper articles.
Draws on the acclaimed social issues series published by Greenhaven Press, as well as core reference content from other Gale & Macmillan Reference USA sources.
EBSCO Databases This link opens in a new window
This lets you search multiple EBSCO databases at one time. Including Academic Search Complete, America: History & Life, Historical Abstracts, Humanities International Complete, and MasterFILE Premier.

1. Explore Your Topic

Before you settle on a topic, it's a good idea to do some background research first. The library is a great source for background information!

2. Refine Your Topic

Now that you've done some background research, it's time to narrow your topic. Remember: the shorter your final paper, the narrower your topic needs to be.

3. Search For Sources

After you've refined your topic, it's time to start searching for sources. Do you need books, articles, or something else?

4. Evaluate Your Sources

It's always a good idea to evaluate sources before using them in your assignment. Do you need to have scholarly sources or the most recent research?

5. Write

Pull everything together to share your argument and your evidence. Tie ideas from your sources together with your own thoughts and analysis to make a compelling case.