The Northland Library is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to conduct research, whether for academic, professional, or personal purposes. With its extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and other materials, the library offers a wealth of information to support research endeavors. However, to make the most of the library's resources, it is essential to employ effective research strategies. In this article, we will provide 10 Northland Library tips for better research, covering topics such as database selection, search techniques, and resource utilization.
Understanding the Northland Library’s Resources
The Northland Library boasts an impressive collection of resources, including over 100,000 books, 500 journals, and numerous databases. To begin research, it is crucial to understand the library’s catalog system and database offerings. The library’s website provides an online catalog, which allows users to search for materials by title, author, subject, or keyword. Additionally, the library offers access to various databases, such as JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest, which provide a vast array of academic and professional articles, reports, and other materials.
Navigating the Library’s Database Collection
The Northland Library’s database collection is a treasure trove of information, offering access to millions of articles, reports, and other materials. To effectively utilize these databases, it is essential to understand the differences between them and how to navigate their interfaces. For instance, JSTOR is an excellent resource for academic articles, while EBSCO offers a wide range of professional and trade publications. By familiarizing oneself with the library’s database collection, researchers can efficiently locate relevant information and streamline their research process.
| Database | Description |
|---|---|
| JSTOR | A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources |
| EBSCO | A comprehensive database of academic, professional, and trade publications |
| ProQuest | A database of academic and professional articles, reports, and other materials |
Developing Effective Search Strategies
Conducting research in the Northland Library requires more than simply typing keywords into a search engine. To locate relevant information, researchers must develop effective search strategies, taking into account the nuances of the library’s catalog system and database interfaces. This may involve using Boolean operators, such as AND, OR, and NOT, to refine search results, as well as employing techniques like truncation and wildcards to broaden or narrow search terms.
Utilizing Boolean Operators and Search Techniques
Boolean operators are a powerful tool in the researcher’s arsenal, allowing for the refinement of search results and the exclusion of irrelevant information. By using operators like AND, OR, and NOT, researchers can create complex search queries that yield precise results. For example, a search for “sustainable energy AND renewable resources” would return results that include both terms, while a search for “sustainable energy NOT fossil fuels” would exclude results that mention fossil fuels. By mastering Boolean operators and other search techniques, researchers can efficiently locate relevant information and streamline their research process.
- Use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine search results
- Employ truncation and wildcards to broaden or narrow search terms
- Use quotes to search for exact phrases
Maximizing the Library’s Resources
In addition to the library’s catalog system and database collection, the Northland Library offers a range of other resources to support research, including interlibrary loan services, research guides, and expert assistance from librarians. By taking advantage of these resources, researchers can access materials that are not available in the library’s collection, receive guidance on research strategies, and gain a deeper understanding of the research process.
Accessing Materials through Interlibrary Loan
The Northland Library’s interlibrary loan service allows researchers to access materials that are not available in the library’s collection. By submitting a request through the library’s online system, researchers can borrow books, articles, and other materials from other libraries, expanding their access to information and supporting their research endeavors.
- Submit an interlibrary loan request through the library's online system
- Wait for the requested materials to arrive at the library
- Pick up the materials at the library's circulation desk
What is the Northland Library’s catalog system?
+The Northland Library’s catalog system is an online database that allows users to search for materials by title, author, subject, or keyword.
How do I access the Northland Library’s databases?
+The Northland Library’s databases can be accessed through the library’s website, using a valid library card or username and password.
What is interlibrary loan, and how does it work?
+Interlibrary loan is a service that allows researchers to access materials that are not available in the library’s collection. By submitting a request through the library’s online system, researchers can borrow books, articles, and other materials from other libraries.
