The Onslow County Library is a treasure trove of information, offering a vast array of resources to support research and learning. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply a curious individual, the library has something to offer. In this article, we'll explore 10 tips for getting the most out of the Onslow County Library and conducting better research.
Understanding the Library’s Resources
The Onslow County Library boasts an impressive collection of books, journals, newspapers, and digital resources. To make the most of these resources, it’s essential to understand what’s available and how to access it. The library’s online catalog is a great place to start, allowing you to search for specific titles, authors, or subjects. You can also browse the shelves in person or explore the library’s digital collections, which include e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services.
Navigating the Library’s Website
The Onslow County Library’s website is a valuable tool for researchers, providing access to a range of resources and services. The website features a user-friendly interface, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. You can search the online catalog, access digital resources, and even renew books or place holds on items. The website also includes a range of research guides and tutorials, which can help you develop your research skills and get the most out of the library’s resources.
Some of the key features of the library's website include:
- Online catalog: Search for books, journals, and other resources
- Digital collections: Access e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services
- Research guides: Get help with your research and find relevant resources
- Tutorials: Develop your research skills and learn how to use the library's resources
Developing a Research Strategy
Before you start researching, it's essential to develop a strategy. This involves identifying your research question, gathering background information, and determining the types of sources you'll need. The Onslow County Library offers a range of tools and resources to help you develop your research strategy, including research guides, tutorials, and expert assistance from librarians.
Using the Library’s Research Guides
The Onslow County Library’s research guides are a valuable resource for researchers, providing access to relevant sources and expert guidance. The guides cover a range of topics, from general research skills to subject-specific resources. You can use the guides to find relevant books, articles, and websites, as well as to develop your research skills and learn how to evaluate sources.
| Research Guide | Description |
|---|---|
| General Research | Learn how to develop a research strategy and find relevant sources |
| Subject-Specific Guides | Find guides on topics such as history, science, and literature |
| Source Evaluation | Learn how to evaluate sources and determine their credibility |
Getting Help from Librarians
The Onslow County Library’s librarians are experts in research and information literacy, and they’re happy to help you with your research. You can ask for help in person, by phone, or via email, and the librarians will do their best to assist you. They can help you find relevant sources, develop your research strategy, and even provide guidance on citation and referencing.
Using the Library’s Ask a Librarian Service
The Onslow County Library’s Ask a Librarian service is a great way to get help with your research. You can submit a question online and receive a response from a librarian within 24 hours. The service is available 24⁄7, making it easy to get help whenever you need it. You can also use the service to ask for guidance on research skills, source evaluation, and citation and referencing.
Some of the benefits of using the Ask a Librarian service include:
- Expert guidance: Get help from experienced librarians who are experts in research and information literacy
- Convenience: Submit questions online and receive responses within 24 hours
- Flexibility: Use the service 24/7, making it easy to get help whenever you need it
Staying Organized and Managing Your Time
Conducting research can be a time-consuming process, and it's essential to stay organized and manage your time effectively. The Onslow County Library offers a range of tools and resources to help you stay on track, including research guides, tutorials, and expert assistance from librarians. You can also use the library's study spaces and technology to help you stay focused and productive.
Using the Library’s Study Spaces and Technology
The Onslow County Library’s study spaces and technology are designed to help you stay focused and productive. The library offers a range of study areas, from quiet rooms to collaborative workspaces, and you can use the library’s computers, printers, and scanners to help you with your research. You can also use the library’s online resources, including digital collections and research guides, to support your research.
| Study Space | Description |
|---|---|
| Quiet Room | A quiet area for individual study and research |
| Collaborative Workspace | A space for group work and collaboration |
| Computer Lab | A room with computers, printers, and scanners for research and productivity |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Onslow County Library is a valuable resource for researchers, offering a range of tools and services to support research and learning. By understanding the library’s resources, developing a research strategy, using the library’s research guides and tutorials, getting help from librarians, staying organized and managing your time, and using the library’s study spaces and technology, you can get the most out of the library and conduct better research. Remember to always evaluate your sources carefully, use credible sources, and cite and reference your sources properly. With the Onslow County Library’s help, you can achieve your research goals and develop your research skills.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Onslow County Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I access the library’s digital collections?
+You can access the library’s digital collections by visiting the library’s website and logging in with your library card number and PIN.
Can I get help with my research from a librarian?
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