If you have questions about how to use these library tools or need some more help, reach out to a librarian! We are available at the Reference Desk or remotely through the slide-out box during library hours!
Part of the academic process is sharing what you have learned. Good luck with your research and your paper or presentation!
Getting familiar with a topic with some background reading takes some time and it is research. It is helpful to do this before you start writing, whether or not you have your research topic fully defined. If you still need to figure out exactly what your research topic is, it is extremely helpful to do this!
You can use the library's books (and eBooks) and article databases to learn more about your topic.
Two types of easy-to-use tools the library has for you that can help explore your topic area are reference books (Gale eBooks/Virtual Reference Library) and curated social issues databases (Opposing Viewpoints and SIRS). These can all be found on the A-Z Databases list. See the boxes below for instruction on using these resources.