This guide is intended to support your research for your course. Use the resources on the tabs above, as well as the information listed below, to explore various places to search.
If you need a refresher on using the library, consult our Library FAQs and an overview of the Library. We also have a guide on how to do research well - use it to brush up and expand your research skills!
Finally, be sure to also consult the research guide for Political Science, which will give you addition ideas and strategies for finding materials related to your topics.
Read the database description to make sure you're searching the best database for your topic. Search several databases to find a wide range of sources.
TIP: One great way to find interest groups is to read newspaper articles about your topic; interest groups are often quoted. Use the ProQuest US Newsstream to read current and back issues of major US newspapers.
A lot of current issues still get covered in books, so don't overlook these important resources. There are entire shelves devoted to topics like the death penalty and reproductive rights, for example. To find books in our library, search the Library Catalog - you can also search directly via the search box on the library's homepage.
When you find books that look useful, write down the Collection & the Call Number.
General Collection, call numbers A - PQ are on the Third Floor
General Collection, call numbers PR - Z are on the Second (Main) Floor
Oversize are on the Third Floor, Beck Hall side
Reference are on the Second (Main) Floor, Beck Hall side
Browsing are on the Second (Main) Floor near the entrance
Young Adult & Children's Books are on the First Floor
AV materials (DVDs, etc) are on the First Floor
Once you are in the right area, signs on the sides of the shelves will direct you further. The system is a little tricky to figure out at first, so don't hesitate to ask for directions at the Information Desk (main floor of the library).
Browse the shelves when you find a useful book. Books are shelved according to topic, so chances are you'll find other relevant books nearby.
You can check books out at the Information Desk. This page has information about loan periods, renewals, etc. And this page gives even more detail about finding books in our library.
You can (and should) also search for books in other libraries. To do this, use the advanced search in the library catalog. Scroll down to select "Libraries WorldWide."
Research Help:
