what is library research definition

• Background Information
• Find Articles
• Get the Full Text of a Journal Article
• Why Can't I Find That Article?

Library Research Methods

• Evaluating Websites
• Citing Sources
• Productivity Tools for Scholars

(Adapted from Thomas Mann, Library Research Models )

Keyword searches . Search relevant keywords in catalogs, indexes, search engines, and full-text resources. Useful both to narrow a search to the specific subject heading and to find sources not captured under a relevant subject heading. To search a database effectively, start with a Keyword search, find relevant records, and then find relevant Subject Headings. In search engines, include many keywords to narrow the search and carefully evaluate what you find.

Subject searches .  Subject Headings (sometimes called Descriptors) are specific terms or phrases used consistently by online or print indexes to describe what a book or journal article is about. This is true of the library’s Catalog as well as many other library databases . 

Look for recent, scholarly books and articles. Within catalogs and databases, sort by the most recent date and look for books from scholarly presses and articles from scholarly journals. The more recent the source, the more up-to-date the references and citations.

Citation searches in scholarly sources .  Track down references, footnotes, endnotes, citations, etc. within relevant readings. Search for specific books or journals in the library’s Catalog . This technique helps you become part of the scholarly conversation on a particular topic.

Searches through published bibliographies (including sets of footnotes in relevant subject documents).  Published bibliographies on particular subjects (Shakespeare, alcoholism, etc.) often list sources missed through other kinds of searches. BIBLIOGRAPHY is a subject heading in the Catalog , so a Guided Search with BIBLIOGRAPHY as a Subject and your topic as a keyword will help you find these.

Searches through people sources (whether by verbal contact, e-mail, etc.). People are often more willing to help than you might think. The people to start with are often professors with relevant knowledge or librarians.

Systematic browsing, especially of full-text sources arranged in predictable subject groupings . Libraries organize books by subject, with similar books shelved together.  Browsing the stacks is a good way to find similar books; however, in large libraries, some books are not in the main stacks (e.g., they might be checked out or in ReCAP), so use the catalog as well.

The advantages of trying all these research methods are that:

Each of these ways of searching is applicable in any subject area

None of them is confined exclusively to English-language sources

Each has both strengths and weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages

The weaknesses within any one method are balanced by the strengths of the others

The strength of each is precisely that it is capable of turning up information or knowledge records that cannot be found efficiently—or often even at all—by any of the others

How to Gut a (Scholarly) Book in 5 Almost-easy Steps

Evaluating sources.

From Wayne C. Booth et al., The Craft of Research , 4th ed., pp.76-79

5.4 EVALUATING SOURCES FOR RELEVANCE AND RELIABILITY When you start looking for sources, you’ll find more than you can use, so you must quickly evaluate their usefulness; use two criteria: relevance and reliability.

5.4.1 Evaluating Sources for Relevance

If your source is a book, do this:

• Skim its index for your key words, then skim the pages on which those words occur.
• Skim the first and last paragraphs in chapters that use a lot of your key words.
• Skim prologues, introductions, summary chapters, and so on.
• Skim the last chapter, especially the >rst and last two or three pages.
• If the source is a collection of articles, skim the editor’s introduction.
• Check the bibliography for titles relevant to your topic.

If your source is an article, do this:

• Read the abstract, if it has one.
• Skim the introduction and conclusion, or if they are not marked by headings, skim the first six or seven paragraphs and the last four or five.
• Skim for section headings, and read the first and last paragraphs of those sections.

If your source is online, do this:

• If it looks like a printed article, follow the steps for a journal article.
• Skim sections labeled “introduction,” “overview,” “summary,” or the like. If there are none, look for a link labeled “About the Site” or something similar.
• If the site has a link labeled “Site Map” or “Index,” check it for your key words and skim the referenced pages.
• If the site has a “search” resource, type in your key words.

This kind of speedy reading can guide your own writing and revision. If you do not structure your report so your readers can skim it quickly and see the outlines of your argument, your report has a problem, an issue we discuss in chapters 12 and 14.

5.4.2 Evaluating Sources for Reliability You can’t judge a source until you read it, but there are signs of its reliability:

1. Is the source published or posted online by a reputable press? Most university presses are reliable, especially if you recognize the name of the university. Some commercial presses are reliable in some fields, such as Norton in literature, Ablex in sciences, or West in law. Be skeptical of a commercial book that makes sensational claims, even if its author has a PhD after his name. Be especially careful about sources on hotly contested social issues such as stem-cell research, gun control, and global warming. Many books and articles are published by individuals or organizations driven by ideology. Libraries often include them for the sake of coverage, but don’t assume they are reliable.

2. Was the book or article peer-reviewed? Most reputable presses and journals ask experts to review a book or article before it is published; it is called “peer review.” Many essay collections, however, are reviewed only by the named editor(s). Few commercial magazines use peer review. If a publication hasn’t been peer-reviewed, be suspicious.

3. Is the author a reputable scholar? This is hard to answer if you are new to a field. Most publications cite an author’s academic credentials; you can find more with a search engine. Most established scholars are reliable, but be cautious if the topic is a contested social issue such as gun control or abortion. Even reputable scholars can have axes to grind, especially if their research is financially supported by a special interest group. Go online to check out anyone an author thanks for support, including foundations that supported her work.

4. If the source is available only online, is it sponsored by a reputable organization? A Web site is only as reliable as its sponsor. You can usually trust one sponsored and maintained by a reputable organization. But if the site has not been updated recently, it may have been abandoned and is no longer endorsed by its sponsor. Some sites supported by individuals are reliable; most are not. Do a Web search for the name of the sponsor to find out more about it.

5. Is the source current? You must use up-to-date sources, but what counts as current depends on the field. In computer science, a journal article can be out-of-date in months; in the social sciences, ten years pushes the limit. Publications have a longer life in the humanities: in philosophy, primary sources are current for centuries, secondary ones for decades. In general, a source that sets out a major position or theory that other researchers accept will stay current longer than those that respond to or develop it. Assume that most textbooks are not current (except, of course, this one).

If you don’t know how to gauge currency in your field, look at the dates of articles in the works cited of a new book or article: you can cite works as old as the older ones in that list (but perhaps not as old as the oldest). Try to find a standard edition of primary works such as novels, plays, letters, and so on (it is usually not the most recent). Be sure that you consult the most recent edition of a secondary or tertiary source (researchers often change their views, even rejecting ones they espoused in earlier editions).

6. If the source is a book, does it have a notes and a bibliography? If not, be suspicious, because you have no way to follow up on anything the source claims.

7. If the source is a Web site, does it include bibliographical data? You cannot know how to judge the reliability of a site that does not indicate who sponsors and maintains it, who wrote what’s posted there, and when it was posted or last updated.

8. If the source is a Web site, does it approach its topic judiciously? Your readers are unlikely to trust a site that engages in heated advocacy, attacks those who disagree, makes wild claims, uses abusive language, or makes errors of spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

The following criteria are particularly important for advanced students:

9. If the source is a book, has it been well reviewed? Many fields have indexes to published reviews that tell you how others evaluate a source.

10. Has the source been frequently cited by others? You can roughly estimate how influential a source is by how often others cite it. To determine that, consult a citation index.

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• Last Updated: Jul 31, 2024 9:15 AM
• URL: https://libguides.princeton.edu/philosophy

Getting Started with Library Research

Research needs and requirements vary with each assignment, project, or paper. Although there is no single “right” way to conduct research, certain methods and skills can make your research efforts more efficient and effective.

If you have questions or can’t find what you need,  ask a librarian .

Developing a Research Topic

All research starts with a question.

• Discuss your ideas with a librarian or with your professor.
• Formulate a research question and identify keywords.
• Search subject-focused encyclopedias, books, and journals to see what kind of information already exists on your topic. If you are having trouble finding information, you may need to change your search terms or ask for help.

Additional resources:

• Library Research at Cornell
• Research Guides

Using the Library to Find Research Materials

The Library is the top resource when it comes to locating and accessing research materials.

• Use the library catalog to find materials such as books, music, videos, journals, and audio recordings in our collections.
• Search databases to find articles, book chapters, and other sources within a specific subject area or discipline.
• For materials the Library does not own, use BorrowDirect or Interlibrary Loan for quick and easy access.
• Each library unit has unique collections and subject knowledge. See individual library websites for additional resources in specific subject areas.
• Check out our library research guides for lists of resources curated by library staff. Browse by subject or find guides specific to course offerings.

Evaluating Sources

When using a book, article, report, or website for your research, it is important to gauge how reliable the source is. Visit these research guides for more information:

• How to distinguish scholarly vs non-scholarly sources
• Tips for critically analyzing information sources
• Identify misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda

Citing Sources

When writing a research paper, it is important to cite the sources you used in a way that would enable a reader to easily find them.

• Citation Management
• How to Prepare an Annotated Bibliography
• Code of Academic Integrity

An Introduction to Library Research

• The Research Ecosystem
• The Research Question
• The Research Process
• Staying Organized
• Getting Help

Subject Librarian

Gottesman Libraries

Russell Hall

Teachers College, Columbia University

525 West 120th Street

New York, NY 10027

+1 (212) 678-3494

@tcgottesman  

 [email protected]

Russell Hall. Library. Curriculum Reading Room (Floor 5). Historical Photographs of Teachers College. Courtesy of Gottesman Libraries.

Guide Creator

Becca Gates, Research and Instruction Librarian

Getting Started at the Library

Here you will find information about how to get started with research, whether you are a seasoned scholar or brand new to the process.

But first, what is a Library?

Libraries can be defined in many different ways, as demonstrated by the quote below. The Gottesman Libraries specifically are the main form of support for information collection, retrieval, and development at Teachers College. We are housed in Russell Hall and our library began with our physical research collection which can be found in the stacks (definition below) on each floor. Now, we maintain many different physical and digital resources, provide physical spaces for study, host educational and entertaining events, and much more. Think of the library as the hub of information at TC. Below you will find key terms associated with Libraries, definitions are drawn from the Multilingual Glossary for Today's Library Users by the Instruction Section of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) unless otherwise noted.

Library Catalog

"A database (either online or on paper cards) listing and describing the books, journals, government documents, audiovisual and other materials held by a library. Various search terms allow you to look for items in the catalog. "

Educat+ is Gottesman Libraries online catalog that can be searched from our website.

" Shelves in the library where materials—typically books—are stored. Books in the stacks are normally arranged by call number . May be referred to as 'book stacks.'"

A collection of information stored in an electronic format that can be searched by a computer.

Typically databases in libraries contain searchable information resources, including journal articles, books, images, etc. The A-Z Database List on our website includes all databases you have access to through Teachers College.

Peer Review

Peer review is a process by which editors have experts in a field review books or articles submitted for publication by the experts’ peers. Peer review helps to ensure the quality of an information source. A peer-reviewed journal is also called a refereed journal or scholarly journal .

1. A space which houses historical or public records. 2. The historical or public records themselves, which are generally non-circulating materials such as collections of personal papers, rare books, ephemera, etc.

The Gottesman Libraries Archive contains collections on the history of Teachers College, Faculty papers, and more.

An information source published in multiple parts at regular intervals (daily, weekly, monthly, biannually). Journals , magazines , and newspapers are all periodicals. Also called a serial publication.

Trade Journal

A trade journal is a serial publication with a target audience of people within a specific trade or industry. These may also be called trade magazines or trade papers. The example in the photo is a popular trade magazine in the aviation industry. Image from Wikimedia in public domain.

• Next: The Research Ecosystem >>
• Last Updated: Jun 27, 2024 10:12 AM
• URL: https://tc-columbia.libguides.com/library_research

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The Oxford Guide to Library Research

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With all of the new developments in information storage and retrieval, researchers today need a clear and comprehensive overview of the full range of their options, both online and offline, for finding the best information quickly. In this third edition of The Oxford Guide to Library Research, Thomas Mann maps out an array not just of important databases and print sources, but of several specific search techniques that can be applied profitably in any area of research. From academic resources to government documents to manuscripts in archives to business Web sites, Mann shows readers how best to exploit controlled subject headings, explains why browsing library shelves is still important in an online age, demonstrates how citation searching and related record searching produce results far beyond keyword inquiries, and offers practical tips on making personal contacts with knowledgeable people. Against the trendy but mistaken assumption that "everything" can be found on the Internet, Mann shows the lasting value of physical libraries and the unexpected power of traditional search mechanisms, while also providing the best overview of the new capabilities of computer indexing. Throughout the book Mann enlivens his advice with real-world examples derived from his experience of having helped thousands of researchers, with interests in all subjects areas, over a quarter century. Along the way he provides striking demonstrations and powerful arguments against those theorists who have mistakenly announced the demise of print. Essential reading for students, scholars, professional researchers, and laypersons, The Oxford Guide to Library Research offers a rich, inclusive overview of the information field, one that can save researchers countless hours of frustration in the search for the best sources on their topics.

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* Research Basics *

• Introduction

So What Do We Mean By “Formal Research?”

• Guide License
• Types of Research
• Secondary Research | Literature Review
• Developing Your Topic
• Using and Evaluating Sources
• Ethics & Responsible Conduct of Research
• More Information

Paul V. Galvin Library

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Make a research appointment:, search our faq:.

A good working definition of research might be:

Research is the deliberate, purposeful, and systematic gathering of data, information, facts, and/or opinions for the advancement of personal, societal, or overall human knowledge.

Based on this definition, we all do research all the time. Most of this research is casual research. Asking friends what they think of different restaurants, looking up reviews of various products online, learning more about celebrities; these are all research.

Formal research includes the type of research most people think of when they hear the term “research”: scientists in white coats working in a fully equipped laboratory. But formal research is a much broader category that just this. Most people will never do laboratory research after graduating from college, but almost everybody will have to do some sort of formal research at some point in their careers.

Casual research is inward facing: it’s done to satisfy our own curiosity or meet our own needs, whether that’s choosing a reliable car or figuring out what to watch on TV. Formal research is outward facing. While it may satisfy our own curiosity, it’s primarily intended to be shared in order to achieve some purpose. That purpose could be anything: finding a cure for cancer, securing funding for a new business, improving some process at your workplace, proving the latest theory in quantum physics, or even just getting a good grade in your Humanities 200 class.

What sets formal research apart from casual research is the documentation of where you gathered your information from. This is done in the form of “citations” and “bibliographies.” Citing sources is covered in the section "Citing Your Sources."

Formal research also follows certain common patterns depending on what the research is trying to show or prove. These are covered in the section “Types of Research.”

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• Last Updated: Jul 24, 2024 4:33 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.iit.edu/research_basics

Definition of a Library: General Definition

Definition of a library.

In The Librarian’s Book of Lists (Chicago: ALA, 2010), George Eberhart offers this definition: 

"A library is a collection of resources in a variety of formats that is (1) organized by information professionals or other experts who (2) provide convenient physical, digital, bibliographic, or intellectual access and (3) offer targeted services and programs (4) with the mission of educating, informing, or entertaining a variety of audiences (5) and the goal of stimulating individual learning and advancing society as a whole." (p.1)

This definition is in turn compiled from:

(1) Heartsill Young, ed., The ALA Glossary of Library and Information Science (ALA, 1983) (2) Robert S. Martin, "Libraries and Learners in the Twenty-First Century," Cora Paul Bomar Lecture, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, April 5, 2003. (3) Deanna B. Marcum, "Research Questions for the Digital Era Library," Library Trends 51 (Spring 2003): 636-651.

Another general definition of library is from the Online Dictionary of Library and Information Science (ODLIS):

“Library -- from the Latin liber, meaning "book." In Greek and the Romance languages, the corresponding term is bibliotheca. A collection or group of collections of books and/or other print or nonprint materials organized and maintained for use (reading, consultation, study, research, etc.). Institutional libraries, organized to facilitate access by a specific clientele, are staffed by librarians and other personnel trained to provide services to meet user needs. By extension, the room, building, or facility that houses such a collection, usually but not necessarily built for that purpose. Directory information on libraries is available alphabetically by country in World Guide to Libraries, a serial published by K.G. Saur. Two comprehensive worldwide online directories of library homepages are Libdex and Libweb. See also the UNESCO Libraries Portal. Abbreviated lib. See also: academic library, government library, monastic library, new library, proto-library, public library, special library, and subscription library.

ANSI/NISO Z39.7-2013-Information Services and Use: Metrics & Statistics for Libraries and Information Providers : Data Dictionary : an American National Standard  identifies categories for basic library statistical data reported at the national level, and provides associated definitions of terms” (p. 1), including the main types of libraries (public, academic, special, school, medical, etc.).

The American Library Association has also curated a listing of library related acronyms and initalisms.

• ODLIS: Online Dictionary for Library and Information Science ODLIS is designed as a hypertext reference resource for library and information science professionals, university students and faculty, and users of all types of libraries. Expansion of the dictionary is an ongoing process. Broad in scope, ODLIS includes not only the terminology of the various specializations within LIS but also the vocabulary of publishing, printing, binding, the book trade, graphic arts, book history, literature, bibliography, telecommunications, and computer science when, in the author's judgment, a definition might prove useful to librarians and information specialists in their work.
• IMLS Public Libraries in the United States Survey definitions This is the list of state characteristics data element definitions for the Survey.
• ANSI/NISO Z39.7-2013 Information Services and Use: Metrics & Statistics for Libraries and Information Providers Data Dictionary This standard identifies categories for basic library statistical data reported at the national level, and provides associated definitions of terms.
• Library-Related Acronyms and Initialisms An alphabetical listing of library acronyms and initalisms including ALA units, ALA publications, acronyms for a selected group of other library and related organizations, and abbreviations commonly used in library literature.

Public Libraries

Per the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a  public library is established under state enabling laws or regulations to serve a community, district, or region, and provides at least the following:

• an organized collection of printed or other library materials, or a combination thereof;
• paid staff;
• an established schedule in which services of the staff are available to the public;
• the facilities necessary to support such a collection, staff, and schedule, and
• is supported in whole or in part with public funds.

Public libraries continue to be places for education and self-help, and offer opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds.  They offer opportunity for everyone to  learn and to pursue self-improvement. In response to community needs for information, many libraries offer such programs as English as a  Second Language (ESL) classes, homework help, after-school programs for children, job information centers, assistance for new immigrants, literacy programs, and much, much more.  To serve such community needs, public libraries collect and make available information in many, many formats.

• Public Library Association A division of the American Library Association (ALA), the oldest and largest library association in the world. Founded in 1944, PLA is a member-driven organization that exists to provide a diverse program of communication, publication, advocacy, continuing education, and programming for its members and others interested in the advancement of public library service.

School Libraries

Learning for life…whether the focus is on readiness for the next grade or college and career readiness, the school library program plays a crucial role in preparing students for informed living in the 21 st  century. The school library program provides learning opportunities that enable students to become efficient and effective in the pursuit of information. 

Beyond its curricular role, the school library program gives each individual member of the learning community a venue for exploring questions that arise out of individual curiosity and personal interest.  As part of the school library program, the school librarian provides leadership in the use of information technologies and instruction for both students and staff in how to use them constructively, ethically, and safely. The school librarian offers expertise in accessing and evaluating information, using information technologies, and collections of quality physical and virtual resources. In addition, the school librarian possesses dispositions that encourage broad and deep exploration of ideas as well as responsible use of information technologies. These attributes add value to the school community.

The school library represents for students one of our most cherished freedoms--the freedom to speak our minds and hear what others have to say. Students in America have the right to choose what they will read, view, or hear and are expected to develop the ability to think clearly, critically, and creatively about their choices, rather than allowing others to do this for them. 

• American Association of School Librarians (AASL) The American Association of School Librarians (AASL), is a division of the American Library Association (ALA). It is the only national professional membership organization focused on school librarians and the school library community.

Academic Libraries

Academic libraries encompass research libraries, baccalaureate, masters and doctoral degree granting institutions, junior and community colleges, and distance learning programs of higher education.   Academic libraries work together with other members of their institutional communities to participate in, support, and achieve the educational mission of their institutions by teaching the core competencies of information literacy—the abilities involved in identifying an information need, accessing needed information, evaluating, managing, and applying information, and understanding the legal, social, and ethical aspects of information use. The systematic delivery of instructional programs and services should be planned in concert with overall strategic library planning, including the library’s budgeting process. Such planning may also involve strategizing with other campus units to deliver collaboratively designed programming.  Research has shown that the academic library is a positive influencing factor on students' academic success.

• Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) The Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) is the largest division of the American Library Association (ALA). ACRL is the higher education association for librarians. Representing more than academic and research librarians and interested individuals, ACRL develops programs, products and services to help academic and research librarians learn, innovate and lead within the academic community.

• Last Updated: Jun 27, 2022 3:20 PM
• URL: https://libguides.ala.org/library-definition

• University of Michigan Library
• Research Guides

The Library Research Process, Step-by-Step

• Reading Scholarly Articles
• Finding & Exploring a Topic
• Finding Books
• Finding Articles
• Evaluating Sources
• Understanding & Using a Citation Style

Reading Scholarly Articles: Step-by-Step

1. Read the Abstract Section

The first step in reading a scholarly article is to read the abstract or summary of the article. Abstracts are always found at the beginning of an article and provide a basic summary or roadmap to the article. The abstract also introduces the purpose of the article.

Take a few minutes to carefully read the abstract of the practice article. Note that the abstract is not formally labeled "abstract" but is called "background and aims." Any summary at the start of an article is considered the abstract.

The abstract should always be read first to make sure the article is relevant to your topic. However, reading the abstract should never replace reading the entire article as the abstract is too brief to be used to fully understand the article.

2. Read the Conclusion Section Reading the conclusion will help you understand the main points of the article and what the authors are attempting to prove. 

3. Read the Introduction Section Now that you have an overview of the article from the abstract and understand the main points the authors are trying to prove from the conclusion, you will want to read the introduction.

4. Read the Results Section

Read the results section. Here are a couple of suggestions for deciphering results:

• If you are a visual learner, the charts may make sense to you.
• If charts are difficult to understand, look over the narrative and then return to the charts.
• Using the charts can help enhance your understanding of the narrative
• Look for works like "important" or "significant" and make special note of these phrases as these usually are signals from the author of an important result.

5. Read the Methods Section Reading the methods section will help you understand how the study or experiment was conducted. It is necessary for other researchers to understand the methods used so that they can replicate the study.

The methods section can also be difficult to read due to technical language used and density of the section. Try circling words, acronyms, and surveys you are unfamiliar with and look them up as those may be important to fully understand the article and may be necessary for future research. 

6. Read the Discussion & Limitations Section

The discussion section is where you will find the researcher's interpretation of the results. The author should answer the article's research question. Remember, you should evaluate the data to form your own conclusions. Don't just accept the author's conclusions without looking at the data for yourself.

Often authors will include a section detailing the limits to their research and their conclusions. The limitation section will usually explain conclusions that could not be drawn from the research as well as areas that future research is needed.

7. Read Through One More Time  After you have jumped around and read the different sections of the article, go back to the beginning and read the article in order. The article should be easier to read and make more sense as you will already be familiar with the main points in each section.

Watch: How to Read a Scholarly Article

Why Watch This Video? You'll learn essential strategies for reading scientific or scholarly journal articles, including:

• Identifying distinct sections (abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion) and the purpose of those sections 
• How to effectively skim content using the ADIRM process (Abstract, Discussion, Introduction, Results, Methods), which will help you assess scholarly articles' relevance and validity
• Distinguishing between main points and less relevant sub points within scholarly research articles. 
• Learning about and applying these techniques will save you time and effort when working through your course assignments.

Theater of the Real

Library research methods, starting your research.

• Finding Books
• Finding Articles
• Finding Plays
• Conducting Interviews
• Primary Sources
• Locating Documentary Films
• Finding Images & Videos
• Citing Information

Use these tips while conducting research in the library:

(Adapted from Thomas Mann, Library Research Models )

• Keyword searches in online and print sources. Search relevant keywords in catalogs, indexes, search engines, and full-text resources. Useful both to narrow a search to the specific subject heading and to find sources not captured under a relevant subject heading. To search a database effectively, start with a Keyword search, find relevant records, and then find relevant Subject Headings. In search engines, include many keywords to narrow the search and carefully evaluate what you find.
• Subject searches in online and print sources.   Subject Headings (sometimes called Descriptors) are specific terms or phrases used consistently by online or print indexes to describe what a book or journal article is about. This is true of the Library’s Online Catalog as well as Proquest or the Reader’s Guide or other indexes.  For example, in the online catalog, DIVORCE and CHILDREN OF DIVORCED PARENTS are different subject headings with different books under them.  If you want the latter and find the specific subject heading, you’ll save time finding the most relevant resources.  DIVORCE as a Keyword in the Online Catalog will pick up both topics above, but also about 1300 other catalog records with the word “divorce” in them.
• Citation searches in printed sources.   Track down footnotes, endnotes, and citations in relevant readings. Search for specific books or journals in the Library’s Online Catalog. This technique helps you become part of the scholarly conversation on a particular topic.
• Searches through published bibliographies (including sets of footnotes in relevant subject documents).  Published bibliographies on particular subjects (Shakespeare, alcoholism, etc.) often list sources missed through other kinds of searches. BIBLIOGRAPHY is a subject heading in the Online Catalog, so a Guided Search with BIBLIOGRAPHY as a Subject and your topic as a keyword will help you find these.
• Searches through people sources (whether by verbal contact, e-mail, electronic bulletin board, letters, etc.). People are often more willing to help than you might think. The people to start with are often Reference Librarians at the Reference Desks in the Library.
• Systematic browsing, especially of full-text sources arranged in predictable subject groupings. Libraries organize books by subject, with similar books shelved together.  Browsing the stacks is a good way to find similar books; however, in large libraries, some books are not in the main stacks, so use the catalog as well.

The advantages of trying all these research methods are that:

• Each of these ways of searching is applicable in any subject area
• None of them is confined exclusively to English-language sources
• Each has both strengths and weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages
• The weaknesses within any one method are balanced by the strengths of the others
• The strength of each is precisely that it is capable of turning up information or knowledge records that cannot be found efficiently—or often even at all—by any of the others
• Credo Reference This link opens in a new window Online collection of dictionaries, encyclopedias, biographical sources, quotations, bilingual dictionaries, and measurement conversions covering topics from the arts to the sciences.
• Oxford Encyclopedia of Theatre and Performance This encyclopedia provides authoritative and up-to-date information about theatre and performance from ancient Greek theatre to the latest developments in London, Paris, New York, and around the globe. In addition to performances in playhouses, it covers dance, opera, radio, film, television, and popular performance, including carnivals, circus, and public executions. Entries range from short definitions of terms to lengthy considerations of genres and movements, such as feminism and psychoanalytic criticism. Entries on cities and regions place performance in its local social and political context. Written in accessible language, this encyclopedia brings together an international cast of over 300 specialist contributors.
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• Last Updated: Aug 14, 2024 1:19 PM
• URL: https://guides.nyu.edu/DocumentaryTheatre

University of Illinois Chicago

University library, search uic library collections.

Find items in UIC Library collections, including books, articles, databases and more.

Advanced Search

Search UIC Library Website

Find items on the UIC Library website, including research guides, help articles, events and website pages.

• Search Collections
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English 160 &161: Introduction to Library Research

• Introduction to Library Research
• Explore Your Topic
• Find sources
• Evaluate sources
• Citation Help
• Eng 555 Orientation

Welcome to the UIC Library

During your library sessions, you will be learning the basics of how to conduct college-level research.  Your instructor and the librarians have developed these sessions to help you complete your research assignments as successfully as possible. After the sessions you should be able to:

• Determine keywords related to your topic.
• Find books and articles on your topic.
• Determine the difference between a scholarly and popular article.

If you need more help once you start researching, just ask a librarian ! 

UIC Library Tutorial: Constructing a Successful Search

How to Search Like a Librarian

Link to first video in this sequence of asynchronous instructional videos for English 160 and 161 above. This will take you to the YouTube Playlist including the following videos which you can also view individually:

Part 1: How to Search LIke a Librarian (2:24)

Part 2: Boolean Search Terms (3:10)

Part 3: Doing a Search and Counting Your Results  (3:08)

Part 4: Get More with OR/Incorporating Synonyms (3:13)

Part 5: Getting More Relevant Results with Filters (3:24)

Part 6: Three Ways to Get Articles  (2:53)

Part 7: Trying Other Sources/Search Tools  (3:40)

Part 8: Getting Help (1:58)

Part 9: Making Bibliographies Easy: The Bonus Episode (3:54)

Research is a Process

Research is Messy

Research can be messy, but that's okay. You may end up changing your topic as you go, and you may not follow these steps in order. As long as you cover them all, that's research. 

Making a mind map of your topic.

Mindmapping, or concept mapping as it is also called, can be an effective way of brainstorming. By plotting out your topic in a visual manner, you can discover connections and identify any missing pieces. It's also a great way to develop keywords and synonyms for database searching.

• Mindmapping Guide (PDF)
• Next: Explore Your Topic >>
• Last Updated: Aug 13, 2024 9:40 AM
• URL: https://researchguides.uic.edu/intro

• I have a research assignment, where do I start?
• Read Your Assignment Carefully
• Understand Your Assignment
• How do I develop a good research question?
• Too Broad, Too Narrow, or Just Right?
• Customize Your Topic
• Turn Your Topic into a Question
• How do I choose the right keywords?
• Bring your keywords together!
• More or Fewer Results
• Advanced Keyword Tricks
• A Timeline of Information
• What is a Scholarly Source?
• Scholarly vs. Popular Sources
• Where might I find relevant information?
• How Do I Use Search@UW?
• Can I Save My Search@UW Search Results?
• Access The Full Text
• How Do I Get an Article That's Not Full Text?
• Requesting a UW-System Item
• Database Basics
• How Do I Find the UW-Stout Library Databases?
• How Do I Choose a Database?
• How Do I Search in a Database?
• Database Tutorials

What are Research Guides?

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Questions about this tutorial?

Library Research 101: What are Research Guides?

  NAVIGATE DATABASES

• Find Databases
• Search strategies
• Research Guides

Adapted from Houston Community College Libraries

If you’re still not sure which library resources to start with for your research, try using our Research Guides!

Research Guides are librarian-curated pathways to information, videos, databases, and other resources for your discipline. That is, they pull many different types of resources on a subject or topic together in one place.

You can access the UW-Stout Library Research Guides by clicking the “Research Guides” button on the library homepage.

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• Last Updated: Nov 29, 2022 3:24 PM
• URL: https://library.uwstout.edu/lr101

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Recent News

library , traditionally, collection of books used for reading or study, or the building or room in which such a collection is kept. The word derives from the Latin liber, “book,” whereas a Latinized Greek word, bibliotheca, is the origin of the word for library in German, Russian, and the Romance languages .

From their historical beginnings as places to keep the business, legal, historical, and religious records of a civilization, libraries have emerged since the middle of the 20th century as a far-reaching body of information resources and services that do not even require a building. Rapid developments in computers, telecommunications, and other technologies have made it possible to store and retrieve information in many different forms and from any place with a computer and a telephone connection. The terms digital library and virtual library have begun to be used to refer to the vast collections of information to which people gain access over the Internet, cable television , or some other type of remote electronic connection.

This article provides a history of libraries from their founding in the ancient world through the latter half of the 20th century, when both technological and political forces radically reshaped library development. It offers an overview of several types of traditional libraries and explains how libraries collect, organize, and make accessible their collections. Further discussion of the application of the theory and technology of information science in libraries and related fields is included in the article information processing .

Libraries are collections of books, manuscripts, journals, and other sources of recorded information. They commonly include reference works, such as encyclopaedias that provide factual information and indexes that help users find information in other sources; creative works, including poetry, novels, short stories, music scores, and photographs; nonfiction, such as biographies, histories, and other factual reports; and periodical publications, including magazines, scholarly journals, and books published as part of a series. As home use of records, CD-ROMs, and audiotapes and videotapes has increased, library collections have begun to include these and other forms of media, too.

Libraries were involved early in exploiting information technologies. For many years libraries have participated in cooperative ventures with other libraries. Different institutions have shared cataloging and information about what each has in its collection. They have used this shared information to facilitate the borrowing and lending of materials among libraries. Librarians have also become expert in finding information from on-line and CD-ROM databases.

As society has begun to value information more highly, the so-called information industry has developed. This industry encompasses publishers, software developers, on-line information services, and other businesses that package and sell information products for a profit. It provides both an opportunity and a challenge to libraries. On the one hand, as more information becomes available in electronic form, libraries no longer have to own an article or a certain piece of statistical information, for example, to obtain it quickly for a user. On the other hand, members of the information industry seem to be offering alternatives to libraries. A student with her own computer can now go directly to an on-line service to locate, order, and receive a copy of an article without ever leaving her home.

Although the development of digital libraries means that people do not have to go to a building for some kinds of information, users still need help to locate the information they want. In a traditional library building, a user has access to a catalog that will help locate a book . In a digital library, a user has access to catalogs to find traditional library materials, but much of the information on, for example, the Internet can not be found through one commonly accepted form of identification. This problem necessitates agreement on standard ways to identify pieces of electronic information (sometimes called meta-data) and the development of codes (such as HTML [Hypertext Markup Language] and SGML [Standard Generalized Markup Language]) that can be inserted into electronic texts.

For many years libraries have bought books and periodicals that people can borrow or photocopy for personal use. Publishers of electronic databases, however, do not usually sell their product, but instead they license it to libraries (or sites) for specific uses. They usually charge libraries a per-user fee or a per-unit fee for the specific amount of information the library uses. When libraries do not own these resources, they have less control over whether older information is saved for future use—another important cultural function of libraries. In the electronic age, questions of copyright, intellectual property rights , and the economics of information have become increasingly important to the future of library service.

Increased availability of electronic information has led libraries, particularly in schools, colleges, and universities, to develop important relationships to their institutions’ computer centres. In some places the computer centre is the place responsible for electronic information and the library is responsible for print information. In some educational institutions librarians have assumed responsibility for both the library collection and computer services.

As technology has changed and allowed ever new ways of creating, storing, organizing, and providing information, public expectation of the role of libraries has increased. Libraries have responded by developing more sophisticated on-line catalogs that allow users to find out whether or not a book has been checked out and what other libraries have it. Libraries have also found that users want information faster, they want the full text of a document instead of a citation to it, and they want information that clearly answers their questions. In response, libraries have provided Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) services, in which librarians choose information that may be of interest to their users and forward it to them before the users request it.

The changes in libraries outlined above originated in the United States and other English-speaking countries. But electronic networks do not have geographic boundaries, and their influence has spread rapidly. With Internet connections in Peking (Beijing), Moscow, and across the globe, people who did not have access to traditional library services now have the opportunity to get information about all types of subjects, free of political censorship .

As libraries have changed, so, too, has the role of the librarian. Increasingly librarians have assumed the role of educator to teach their users how to find information both in the library and over electronic networks. Public librarians have expanded their roles by providing local community information through publicly accessible computing systems. Some librarians are experts about computers and computer software. Others are concerned with how computer technologies can preserve the human cultural records of the past or assure that library collections on crumbling paper or in old computer files can still be used by people many centuries in the future.

The work of librarians has also moved outside library walls. Librarians have begun to work in the information industry as salespeople, designers of new information systems, researchers, and information analysts. They also are found in such fields as marketing and public relations and in such organizations as law firms, where staffs need rapid access to information.

Although libraries have changed significantly over the course of history, as the following section demonstrates, their cultural role has not. Libraries remain responsible for acquiring or providing access to books, periodicals, and other media that meet the educational, recreational, and informational needs of their users. They continue to keep the business, legal, historical, and religious records of a civilization. They are the place where a toddler can hear his first story and a scholar can carry out her research.

What is a Library?

Introduction:  A library is a collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials made available for people to borrow or use for reference. Libraries have been around for thousands of years and are an essential part of society, providing everyone access to information and knowledge, regardless of their background or financial means. They serve as a hub for education, research, and leisure, allowing people to expand their horizons, explore new ideas, and connect with others who share their interests. Libraries offer services beyond just lending books, including computer access, community events, and educational programs. They are crucial in promoting literacy, intellectual freedom, and cultural diversity and are vital resources for individuals, communities, and society.

1.1 What is a Library?

A library is a place of knowledge and discovery where endless possibilities exist. When you walk through the doors of a library, you are greeted by shelves upon shelves of books, magazines, and newspapers, all waiting to be explored. The scent of paper and ink fills the air, and the peaceful silence creates an atmosphere perfect for reading, studying, or relaxing.

The first thing you will notice when you enter a library is the wide variety of materials available. There are books on every subject imaginable, from classic literature to modern bestsellers, scientific journals, and historical biographies. You can find resources on art, music, business, and technology, to name a few“. The library also provides access to online databases, e-books, and audiobooks, making finding the information you need more accessible than ever. They are not just places for reading, though. They are also centers for community engagement and learning. Many libraries host events and programs for all ages, from storytimes for children to book clubs for adults. They offer classes on computer skills, job searching, and language learning. Some libraries even have maker spaces where patrons can learn and experiment with technology, such as 3D printing and coding.

In addition to the vast collection of resources and programs, libraries provide a welcoming and inclusive environment. They are places where people of all ages, races, religions, and backgrounds can come together and learn from one another. Libraries offer free and equal access to information, essential for democracy and civic engagement.

Libraries also have a long and rich history. Some of the world’s oldest libraries date back to ancient civilizations, such as the Library of Alexandria in Egypt, founded in the 3rd century BC. Today, libraries play a vital role in preserving and sharing knowledge and culture.

1.2 Definitions of Library:

A library is a collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials made available for people to borrow or use for reference. Libraries have been around for thousands of years and are an essential part of society, providing everyone access to information and knowledge, regardless of their background or financial means. They serve as a hub for education, research, and leisure, allowing people to expand their horizons, explore new ideas, and connect with others who share their interests. Libraries offer services beyond just lending books, including computer access, community events, and educational programs. They are crucial in promoting literacy, intellectual freedom, and cultural diversity and are vital resources for individuals, communities, and society.

Rabindranath Tagore , the famous Indian poet, philosopher, and Nobel laureate, deeply appreciated the value of libraries. In his view, a library was much more than just a collection of books. He believed a library was a place of transformation where people could learn, grow, and be inspired.

According to Rabindranath Tagore, “A library can be thought of as a Tower of Silence — like a sleeping child, which embodies the entrapped vibrations of an age-old ocean. Here, language is still, like a calm mass of water that has stopped flowing. Man’s unbounded enlightenment, shackled with words, is imprisoned in the papers in black and white. Suppose all these sublime aspirations of the quest of the human mind suddenly find expression. In that case, if the rebellious words fly in all directions, it will be akin to a torrent from the melted ice of the Himalayas. The library encloses this very deluge of the ardent expressions of human souls within itself.” 1

UNESCO (2020) defines library as an “Organisation, or part of an organisation, whose main aims are to build and maintain a collection and to facilitate the use of such information resources and facilities as are required to meet the informational, research, educational, cultural or recreational needs of its users; these are the basic requirements for a library and do not exclude any additional resources and services incidental to its main purpose.” 2

S.R Ranganathan – “A library is a public institution or establishment charged with the care of books, the duty of making them accessible to those who require the use of them.”

ALA (American Library Association) glossary of Library and Information Science: “Library as a collection of materials organized to provide physical bibliographical and intellectual access to group with a staff trained to provide services and program related to information needs of the target group.” 3

Harrods librarian’s glossary and reference book define the Library as: 4

“1) A collection of books and other literary material kept for reading, study, and consultation. 2) A place, building, rooms, set apart for the keeping and use of a collection of books, etc.”

1.3 Types of Library:

Libraries are invaluable resources that provide access to knowledge , information, and literature. They come in many different forms, each with a unique purpose and target audience. There are public libraries, academic libraries, special libraries, and more. Each type of library has its collections, services, and mission tailored to the needs of its patrons. Understanding the different types of libraries and what they offer can help individuals make the most of these valuable resources.

Libraries can be divided into types based on various factors, including their physical existence, collections, and services. One common way to categorize libraries is based on their physical presence, including academic, public, special, and national libraries.

1.3.1. Academic Library :

An academic library is located within a college or university and serves students and faculty’s research and educational needs. Academic libraries have collections of books, journals, and other materials tailored to specific academic disciplines, such as business, law, medicine, or engineering.

The primary purpose of an academic library is to support the educational programs of the institution it serves. This includes providing access to scholarly publications, textbooks, and other essential resources for students and faculty to conduct research, write papers, and complete coursework. It also provides study spaces, computer labs, and other amenities to support academic pursuits. They may have reference librarians available to assist students and faculty with their research needs and provide guidance on using library resources effectively.

Academic libraries can be further classified into different types based on the level of education they serve. The most common types of academic libraries include school libraries, college libraries, and university libraries.

• School Library: A school library serves the educational and research needs of elementary, middle, and high school students and faculty. School libraries typically have collections of books and other materials tailored to the student’s age and grade level. They may also provide instructional materials, such as textbooks and curriculum guides, to support the teaching and learning activities of the school.
• College Library: A college library serves students, and faculty’s educational and research needs in a community college or a four-year college or university. College libraries typically have collections of books, journals, and other materials tailored to specific academic disciplines, such as business, law, or engineering. They may also provide access to specialized databases and other electronic resources to support the research needs of the college community.
• University Library: A university library serves students, and faculty’s educational and research needs in a large research university. University libraries typically have extensive collections of books, journals, and other materials covering various academic disciplines. They may also have specialized collections of rare books, manuscripts, and archives used for research and teaching. In addition, university libraries often provide various services, such as interlibrary loans, reference assistance, and instruction on how to use library resources effectively.

1.3.2. Public Library :

A public library is a dynamic and community-centered institution that serves as a cornerstone for education, cultural enrichment, and information accessibility. Unlike specialized libraries, public libraries are designed to cater to the diverse needs of the general public, offering a wide array of resources, services, and programs. These institutions are open to everyone, regardless of age, background, or socio-economic status, embodying the principles of inclusivity and equal access to information. Public libraries typically house extensive collections of books, periodicals, multimedia materials, and digital resources, covering a broad spectrum of subjects and interests.

One of the primary objectives of public libraries is to foster a love for learning and reading among individuals of all ages. They often serve as hubs for literacy initiatives, providing educational programs for children, teenagers, and adults. Public libraries play a crucial role in supporting formal education by offering resources for research, homework assistance, and lifelong learning opportunities. Beyond traditional book lending, public libraries have evolved to incorporate digital technologies, providing access to e-books, online databases, and other digital resources, thereby adapting to the changing information landscape.

Public libraries also serve as community spaces, offering meeting rooms, event spaces, and collaborative areas where people can gather for discussions, workshops, and cultural events. Additionally, public libraries frequently act as technology hubs, providing free internet access and computer facilities to bridge the digital divide and ensure that individuals without personal access to technology can still benefit from online resources.

1.3.3. Special Library :

A special library is a specialized information resource center established to cater to the distinct needs of a particular organization, industry, or field of interest. Unlike public libraries that serve a diverse community, special libraries are tailored to provide targeted information and resources to a specific group with unique requirements. These libraries can be found in various settings, including corporations, government agencies, research institutions, museums, and nonprofit organizations. A special library’s primary mission is to support its parent organization’s goals and objectives by offering in-depth, relevant, and often proprietary information. Special libraries curate collections that reflect the specialized knowledge needs of their users, encompassing industry reports, technical documentation, market research, patents, and other materials that may not be readily available in general libraries.

Librarians in special libraries play a crucial role in understanding and addressing the specific information needs of their stakeholders. They often collaborate closely with subject matter experts and organizational leaders to ensure that the library’s resources align with the institution’s strategic priorities. In addition to traditional library services, special libraries increasingly leverage technology to enhance information accessibility, utilizing digital databases, online catalogs, and other tools to streamline information retrieval.

Furthermore, special libraries contribute significantly to knowledge management within organizations by actively participating in organizing and disseminating internal knowledge. They foster innovation, support decision-making processes, and facilitate ongoing professional development. In summary, a special library is a tailored information hub that is an indispensable asset for organizations, providing specialized knowledge resources that contribute to their success and competitiveness.

1.3.4. National Library :

A National Library is a flagship institution within a country that serves as the custodian of its literary and cultural heritage, playing a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the nation’s intellectual wealth. These libraries are typically government-funded and are entrusted with collecting, cataloging, and archiving a comprehensive range of materials representative of the nation’s literature, history, and culture. National Libraries house vast collections of books, manuscripts, periodicals, maps, and other valuable documents, often repositories of rare and unique materials. They play a crucial role in fostering scholarship and research by providing access to a wealth of information and resources, thereby advancing knowledge within the country.

In addition to repositories of cultural and historical treasures, National Libraries often act as educational centers, offering services to the public, researchers, and scholars. These services may include reference assistance, educational programs, and exhibitions that showcase the nation’s cultural heritage. National Libraries also collaborate with other institutions, both domestically and internationally, to share resources and enhance the accessibility of information.

National Libraries are instrumental in promoting a sense of national identity and pride by preserving the written and printed works that define a country’s heritage. They often serve as symbols of intellectual freedom, cultural diversity, and the importance of knowledge in shaping a nation’s destiny. Through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives, National Libraries contribute not only to the preservation of the past but also to the ongoing development of a nation’s intellectual and cultural landscape, making them vital institutions for fostering a sense of unity, understanding, and appreciation for the shared heritage of a country.

1.4 Type of Libraries based on their collection:

Based on the collections of the Libraries can be divided into Traditional Libraries, Automated Libraries, Hybrid Libraries, Virtual Libraries, and Online Libraries.

1.4.1. Traditional Library :

Traditional libraries have been around for centuries and have played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating knowledge. These libraries primarily contain physical materials such as books, journals, magazines, and newspapers, organized according to the subject matter. Traditional libraries usually have a physical space where users can browse and borrow materials, and they often have librarians who can assist users in locating the materials they need.

One of the most significant benefits of traditional libraries is the opportunity for users to interact with physical books and other materials. This hands-on experience can be precious for students and researchers who need to access primary sources or study rare materials. Traditional libraries may also offer specialized collections, such as rare books or archives, which can provide a unique perspective on historical events or cultural phenomena.

Another benefit of traditional libraries is the sense of community they can provide. Libraries have historically been a place for people to come together and share knowledge, and they often host events such as book clubs, lectures, and workshops. Additionally, traditional libraries may provide spaces for study or research, which can be particularly valuable for students who need a quiet and focused environment.

While many libraries are now incorporating digital materials into their collections, traditional libraries are essential for students, researchers, and anyone who enjoys reading and learning from physical books. They provide a tangible connection to our collective history and culture and offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated by digital resources alone.

1.4.2. Automated Library :

An automated library, also known as a computerized or digital library, uses technology to automate specific tasks such as cataloging, circulation, and acquisitions. These libraries use specialized software to manage their collections and automate routine tasks, making it easier for users to access and use library resources.

One of the key benefits of automated libraries is the speed and efficiency with which they can manage their collections. Automated systems allow librarians to catalog new materials quickly and easily and make them available to users. It also streamlines the borrowing process, allowing users to check out materials and renew them online without interacting with a librarian.

Another benefit of automated libraries is providing remote access to digital materials. These libraries often have a website or online portal where users can search for and access digital resources such as e-books, e-journals, and multimedia materials. This can be particularly valuable for users who cannot visit the physical library, such as distance learners or people with disabilities.

In addition to these benefits, automated libraries can provide valuable data and insights into library usage. The software used by automated libraries can track borrowing patterns and provide analytics on which materials are most frequently used. This information can help librarians make informed decisions about collection development and resource allocation.

1.4.3 Hybrid Library :

A hybrid library is a type of library that combines both physical and digital resources, providing users with a wider range of materials and access options. These libraries allow users to access materials in the best format, whether a physical book or an e-book. Hybrid libraries typically have physical collections of books, other materials, and digital resources that can be accessed online.

One of the key benefits of hybrid libraries is the ability to offer physical and digital resources in one location. This allows users to access materials in the best format, whether they prefer to read a physical book or an e-book. Hybrid libraries can also offer a wider range of resources than traditional libraries since physical space constraints do not limit them.

Another benefit of hybrid libraries is the ability to provide remote access to materials. Users can search for and access digital resources from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier to conduct research or access materials for distance learning. At the same time, users can also come to the physical library to access materials unavailable online or to work in a quiet and focused environment.

1.4.4 Virtual Library :

A Virtual Library, also known as a digital or online library, is a modern and dynamic concept that harnesses digital technologies to provide access to a vast array of information resources in a virtual environment. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar libraries, virtual libraries exist in the digital realm, allowing users to access their collections remotely through the Internet. These libraries often host diverse digital content, including e-books, academic journals, multimedia materials, and databases, making them an invaluable resource for individuals, researchers, and students worldwide. Virtual libraries facilitate convenient and flexible access to information, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling users to explore resources from the comfort of their homes or any location with internet connectivity.

One of the key advantages of virtual libraries is the ability to offer an extensive collection without the physical constraints of shelf space. Users can search, browse, and retrieve information quickly and efficiently using online catalogs and search tools. Virtual libraries are often interactive, providing features such as hyperlinks, multimedia content, and advanced search functionalities to enhance the user experience.

Additionally, virtual libraries support e-learning and distance education programs by providing a centralized platform for accessing educational materials. They contribute to the democratization of information by making knowledge more widely available, bridging gaps in accessibility, and promoting lifelong learning.

However, digital literacy, information security, and the digital divide must be addressed to ensure equitable access to virtual library resources. Overall, virtual libraries represent a transformative evolution in the dissemination of information, offering a flexible and efficient means of accessing and sharing knowledge in the digital age.

1.4.5 Online Library:

An online library is a digital repository of information and resources accessible via the Internet, providing users with a convenient and flexible platform for accessing a wide array of materials. Often synonymous with virtual or digital libraries, online libraries transcend physical boundaries, enabling users to explore and utilize resources from anywhere with an internet connection. These libraries typically house digital versions of books, journals, articles, multimedia content, and databases. Users can access and search for specific information using online catalogs and search functionalities, streamlining the information retrieval. Online libraries have become instrumental in disseminating knowledge, supporting academic research, distance education, and self-directed learning.

One of the key features of online libraries is the ability to offer a vast and diverse collection without constraints on physical space. This allows for the inclusion of a broad range of materials, including rare and out-of-print works, and facilitates easy updates and additions to the collection. Additionally, online libraries often provide interactive features such as hyperlinks, multimedia content, and collaborative tools, enhancing the user experience and engagement.

Online libraries play a crucial role in democratizing access to information and breaking down geographical, time, and resource barriers. They contribute to global knowledge sharing, fostering collaborative research endeavors and supporting diverse educational initiatives. While online libraries offer unparalleled accessibility, challenges such as digital literacy, information security, and reliable internet connectivity must be addressed to ensure equitable access for users worldwide. In essence, online libraries represent a transformative shift in how information is stored, accessed, and shared in the digital age, making knowledge more widely available and empowering individuals to engage with information in unprecedented ways.

1.5 Importance of Library:

Libraries play a vital role in our lives, providing access to knowledge, resources, and community. They are essential for promoting education, literacy, and the development of critical thinking skills.

First and foremost, libraries are a vital source of information and resources. They provide access to many materials, including books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. This information can be used for personal enrichment, research, or academic pursuits. Libraries also offer access to databases, research journals, and other materials that may not be available elsewhere. This access to information is crucial for staying informed, keeping up with trends and innovations, and fostering lifelong learning.

Libraries also play a critical role in promoting literacy and education. They offer programs and services encouraging reading, learning, and developing critical thinking skills. For example, libraries offer summer reading programs for children, book clubs for adults, and educational workshops for people of all ages. These programs help to improve literacy rates, promote learning, and foster a love of reading and learning.

Libraries also serve as community hubs, providing spaces for people to gather, learn, and connect. They offer opportunities for cultural and educational events, such as book clubs, workshops, and lectures. This fosters a sense of community and promotes lifelong learning. Libraries also provide access to technology, such as computers and internet access, which is essential for people who do not have access to these resources at home.

In addition to providing access to information and resources, libraries also play an important role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. They serve as repositories of knowledge, preserving and organizing materials such as books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. This is important for preserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to future generations.

Finally, libraries play a critical role in promoting social justice and equality. They provide all members of society access to information and resources, regardless of their background, income, or location. This is particularly important for marginalized communities, who may lack access to other sources of information and resources.

Libraries are important institutions that play a vital role in society. They provide access to information, resources, and community, promoting education, literacy, and the development of critical thinking skills. Here are five reasons why libraries are essential:

• Access to Information: Libraries provide access to a vast array of information and resources, including books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. They also offer access to databases, research journals, and other materials that may not be available elsewhere. This access to information is crucial for staying informed, keeping up with trends and innovations, and fostering lifelong learning.
• Promoting Literacy and Education: Libraries offer programs and services that encourage reading, learning, and developing critical thinking skills. They offer summer reading programs for children, book clubs for adults, and educational workshops for people of all ages. These programs help to improve literacy rates, promote learning, and foster a love of reading and learning.
• Community Hub: Libraries serve as community hubs, providing spaces for people to gather, learn, and connect. They offer opportunities for cultural and educational events, such as book clubs, workshops, and lectures. This fosters a sense of community and promotes lifelong learning.
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: Libraries play an important role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. They serve as repositories of knowledge, preserving and organizing materials such as books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. This is important for preserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to future generations.
• Promoting Social Justice and Equality: Libraries provide access to information and resources to all members of society, regardless of their background, income, or location. This is particularly important for marginalized communities, who may lack access to other sources of information and resources. Libraries play a critical role in promoting social justice and equality by providing everyone in the community access to knowledge and resources.

Libraries are essential for promoting education, literacy, and the development of critical thinking skills. They provide access to information, resources, and community, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting lifelong learning. Libraries also play an important role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, social justice, and equality. As such, libraries are vital to any society that values access to information, education, and opportunity.

References:

• Rabindranath Tagore’s love for a Library of Books . (n.d.). Get Bengal. Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https://www.getbengal.com/details/rabindranath-tagores-love-for-a-library-of-books
• UNESCO. (2020, June 22). Library . http://uis.unesco.org/en/glossary-term/library
• Levine-Clark, M., & Carter, T. M. (2013). ALA Glossary of Library and Information Science, Fourth Edition . American Library Association.
• Prytherch, R. (2016). Harrod’s Librarians’ Glossary and Reference Book (0 ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315586243

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Thanks for the contributing of these definitions

Very. Helpful tho

Please I need 5 library definition and the authors

Good job, but how can we get the references?

I like all the definition, they are all related to what I av been taught

Kogi state LGA dekina

Thanks for the valid information.

I need standard library definition

How can we get tge reference

Thanks for providing this definition.

Interesting

I need to know more about library

Very helpful.

I want to become a information scientist.

That’s sound gr8

Thanks for this answers but how do I reference this work as a researcher?

I need five definition of library with reference

Hello I’m in Rwanda, African continent

I appreciate your kindly work.

Mbega byiza! Murakoze(thank you)

I need 10 definition of library by different Liberians in the world

Thank you ndabashimiye cyane

I need the reference on qations

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Interesting post! As a librarian, I appreciate the explanation of the different types of libraries and their functions. It’s great to see a comprehensive overview of the library landscape. Thanks for sharing!

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• Harvard Library
• Research Guides
• Faculty of Arts & Sciences Libraries

Library Research Guide for the History of Science: Introduction

• What is a Primary Source?
• Background and Context/Biography
• Exploring Your Topic
• Using HOLLIS
• What is a Secondary Source?

Page Contents

Knowing a primary source when you see one, kinds of primary sources, find primary sources in hollis, using digital libraries and collections online, using bibliographies.

• Exploring the Special Collections at Harvard
• Citing Sources & Organizing Research

Primary sources provide first-hand testimony or direct evidence concerning a topic under investigation. They are created by witnesses or recorders who experienced the events or conditions being documented.

Often these sources are created at the time when the events or conditions are occurring, but primary sources can also include autobiographies, memoirs, and oral histories recorded later.

Primary sources are characterized by their content, regardless of the format available. (Handwritten notes could be published; the published book might be digitized or put on microfilm, but those notes are still primary sources in any format).

Some types of primary sources:

• Original documents (excerpts or translations acceptable): Diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, contemporary newspaper articles, autobiographies, official records, pamphlets, meeting notes, photographs, contemporary sketches
• Creative works : Poetry, drama, novels, music, art 
• Relics or artifacts : Furniture, clothing, buildings

Examples of primary sources include:

• A poster from the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters' 1962 strike
• The papers of William James
• A 1970 U.S. State Dept document updating Nixon on U.S.-Soviet space cooperation activities (Harvard login)
• A British pamphlet: "Electric Lighting for Country Houses," 1898
• Phineas Gage's skull
• The text of J. Robert Oppenheimer's "Atomic Weapons" presentation to the American Philosophical Society

Outline of Primary Sources for History

Archives and Manuscripts

Archives and manuscripts are the unpublished records of persons (letters, notes, diaries, etc.) and organizations. What are Archives?   Usually each archival collection has a (short) catalog record and a detailed finding aid (which is often available online).

• "Catalog record” refers to the kind of record found in library online catalogs, similar to those for books, although often a bit longer. Example of an Archive record .
• “Finding aid” (sometimes called an inventory) generally refers to a list of the folder labels for the collection, accompanied by a brief collection overview (scope and contents note) and a biographical (or institutional) note on the creator of the collection.  Finding aids may be as long as needed given the size of the collection.  They vary considerably according to the practices of individual repositories. Example of a Finding aid .

To find  Archives and manuscripts  at Harvard, go to  HOLLIS Advanced search .  Search your keywords or Subject terms (see the  HOLLIS page of this guide ) in the Library Catalog, limiting to Resource Type: Archives/Manuscripts.  You can choose the library at the right (Search Scope).  Countway  Medicine has abundant medical archives, and Schlesinger has many archives of women activists, many in health and reproductive rights fields.    Sample search on Subject: Women health .

Library Research Guide for Finding Manuscripts and Archival Collections explains

• How to find archives and manuscripts at Harvard
• How to find archives and manuscripts elsewhere in US via search tools and via subject guides .
• How to find archives and manuscripts in Europe and elsewhere.
• Requesting digitization of archival material from Harvard and from other repositories .

For digitized archival material together with other kinds of primary sources:

• Finding Primary Sources Online offers general instructions for finding primary sources online and a list of resources by region and country
• Online Primary Source Collections for the History of Science lists digital collections at Harvard and beyond by topic.
• Online Primary Source Collections for History lists digital collections at Harvard and beyond by topic.

Methods for finding books are described under the HOLLIS page  of this guide and in the Finding Primary Sources in HOLLIS box on this page. 

• Book Reviews may give an indication as to how a scientific work was received. See:   Finding Book Reviews . 
• Numerous, especially pre-1923 books (as well as periodicals and other sources) can be found and full text searched in several digital libraries (see box on this page).

Periodicals

Scientific articles :

Web of Science Citation Indexes (Harvard Login)  (1900- ) articles in all areas of science. Includes medical articles not in PubMed. You can use the Cited Reference search in the Web of Science to find primary source articles that cite a specified article, thus getting an idea of its reception. More information on the Web of Science .

PubMed (1946- ) covers, usually with abstracts, periodical articles on all areas of medicine. - --Be sure to look at the MeSH (Medical Subject Headings)  at the bottom of pertinent records. Very recent articles may not as yet received their MeSH terms.  So look at older records to find the MeSH terms, and use a variety of keywords as well as MeSH terms to find the new records. --​The MeSH terms are the same as the Medical Subject terms found in HOLLIS. --Hit Free article or Try Harvard Library, not the publisher's name to see full text

JSTOR (Harvard Login)  offers full-text of complete runs (up to about 5 years ago) of over 400 journals. JSTOR allows simultaneous or individual searching, full-text searching optional, numerous journals in a variety of fields of science and medicine. See the list at the bottom of the Advanced search screen. JSTOR searches the "Notes and News" sections of journals ( Science is especially rich in this material). In Advanced Search choose Item Type: Miscellaneous to limit largely to "Notes and News".

PsycINFO) (Harvard Login)  (1872- ) indexes the professional and academic literature in psychology and related disciplines

Many more scientific periodical indexes are listed in the Library Research Guide for the History of Science .

General interest magazines and periodicals see:

American Periodicals Series Online (Harvard Login)  (1740-1900) offers full text of about 1100 American periodicals. Includes several scientific and medical journals including the American Journal of Science and the Medical Repository. In cases where a periodical started before 1900, coverage is included until 1940.

British Periodicals (Harvard Login)  (1681-1920) offers full text for several hundred British periodicals.

Ethnic NewsWatch (Harvard Login)  (1959- ) is a full text database of the newspapers, magazines, and journals of the ethnic, minority and native press.

Periodicals Index Online (Harvard Login)  indexes contents of thousands of US and European journals in the humanities and social sciences, from their first issues to 1995.

Reader's Guide Retrospective (WilsonWeb) (Harvard Login)  (1890-1982)  indexes many American popular periodicals.

Many more general periodical indexes are listed in Finding Articles in General and Popular Periodicals (North America and Western Europe) .

Articles in non-science fields (religion, public policy): see the list in the Library Research Guide for History .

Professional/Trade : Aimed at particular trades or professions.  See the Library Research Guide for History

Newspaper articles : see the Guide to Newspapers and Newspaper Indexes .

Personal accounts . These are first person narratives recalling or describing a person’s life and opinions. These include Diaries, memoirs, autobiographies, and when delivered orally and recorded: Oral histories and Interviews.

National Library of Medicine Oral Histories

Regulatory Oral History Hub  (Kenan Institute for Ethics, Duke University) offers links to digital collections containing interviews with regulators, lawyers, and judges. Mainly U.S.

Visual sources :

Records for many, but by no means all, individual Harvard University Library images are available in  HOLLIS Images , an online catalog of images. Records include subjects and a thumbnail image.  HOLLIS Images is included in HOLLIS  searches.

Science & Society Picture Library offers over 50,000 images from the Science Museum (London), the National Museum of Photography, Film & Television and the National Railway Museum.

Database of Scientific Illustrators  (DSI) includes over 12500 illustrators in natural history, medicine, technology and various sciences worldwide, c.1450-1950. Living illustrators excluded. 

NYPL Digital Gallery Pictures of Science: 700 Years of Scientific and Medical Illustration

Images from the History of Medicine (IHM) includes prints and photographs from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. (The IHM is contained within a larger NLM image database, so this link goes to a specialized search).

Images From the History of the Public Health Service: a Photographic Exhibit .

Wellcome Images

Films/Videos

To find films in  HOLLIS , search your topic keywords, then on the right side of the results screen, look at Resource Type and choose video/film.

To find books about films about your topic, search your topic keywords AND "in motion pictures" ​  (in "")

​Film Platform  offers numerous documentary films on a wide variety of subjects.  There are collections on several topics. Searches can be filtered by topic, country of production, and language. 

A list of general sources for images and film is available in the Library Research Guide for History and additional sources for the history of science in Library Research Guide for the History of Science .

Government documents often concern matters of science and health policy.  For Congressional documents, especially committee reports, see ProQuest Congressional (Harvard Login ). 

HathiTrust Digital Library . Each full text item is linked to a standard library catalog record, thus providing good metadata and subject terms. The catalog can be searched separately.  Many government documents are full text viewable.  Search US government department as Author.

More sources are listed in the Library Research Guide for History

For artifacts and other objects , the Historic Scientific Instruments Collection in the Science Center includes over 15,000 instruments, often with contemporary documentation, from 1450 through the 20th century worldwide.

Waywiser, online database of the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments .

Warren Anatomical Museum of the Center for the History of Medicine in the Countway Library of Medicine has a rich collection of medical artifacts and specimens.

Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology

Fall 2020: these collections are closed during the pandemic. Check out their links above to see what they have available online.

Primary Source Terms :

You can limit HOLLIS  searches to your time period, but sources may be published later, such as a person's diary published posthumously. Find these with these special Subject terms.

You can use the following terms to search HOLLIS for primary sources:

• Correspondence
• Description and travel
• Manuscripts
• Notebooks, sketchbooks, etc.
• Personal narratives (refers to accounts of wars and diseases only)
• Pictorial works
• Sources (usually refers to collections of published primary sources)

Include these terms with your topical words in HOLLIS searches. For example: tuberculosis personal narratives

Online Primary Source Collections for the History of Science lists digital collections at Harvard and beyond by topic

Google Book Search, HathiTrust Digital Library and Internet Archives offer books and periodicals digitized from numerous libraries.  Only out-of-copyright, generally post-1923, books are fully viewable.  Each of these three digital libraries allows searching full text over their entire collections.

Google Book Search

HathiTrust Digital Library is a vast digital library of books an dperiodicals. Full text searchs can be limited by standard Subjetc term (as usd in HOOLIS) or by aiuthor or til=tle (useful for periodicals).  Many post-1925 out-of-copyright books, especially government documents, are full text viewable. You can search within copyright books to see what page your search term is on.

Internet Archive also offers a full text search which also can be limited by author, title, subject. For instructions see:  Details on searching HathiTrust and Internet Archive.

The Internet: Archive includes the Medical Heritage Library . Information about the Medical Heritage Library. Searchable full text. Includes:

• US Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Office of Medical History Collection
• State Medical Society Journals    ----  A guide to digitized state medical society journals in the Medical Heritage Library
• Annual reports and other publications of the National Institutes of Health
• UK Medical Heritage Library

Biodiversity Heritage Library

The Online Books Page arranges electronic texts by Library of Congress call numbers and is searchable (but not full text searchable).  Includes books not in Google Books, HathiTrust, or Internet Archive. Has many other useful features.

Contagion: Historical Views of Diseases and Epidemics (1493-1922) provides digitized historical, manuscript, and image resources selected from Harvard University libraries and archives.

Expeditions and Discoveries (1626-1953) features nine expeditions in anthropology and archaeology, astronomy, botany, and oceanography in which Harvard University played a significant role. Includes manuscripts and records, published materials, visual works, and maps from 14 Harvard repositories.

Defining Gender Online: Five Centuries of Advice Literature for Men and Women (1450-1910).

Twentieth Century Advice Literature: North American Guides on Race, Sex, Gender, and the Family.

Finding Primary Sources Online  offers methods for finding digital libraries and digital collections on the open Web   and for finding Digital Libraries/Collections by Region or Language .

Many more general History digital libraries and collections: Library Research Guide for History

More History of Science digital libraries: Library Research Guide for the History of Science .

There may already be a detailed list of sources (a bibliography) for your topic.

For instance:

A bibliography of eugenics , by Samuel J. Holmes ... Berkeley, Calif., University of California press, 1924, 514 p. ( University of California publications in zoology . vol. XXV)  Full text online .

Look for specialized subject bibliographies in HOLLIS Catalog . Example .   WorldCat can do similar searches in the Subject Keyword field for non-Harvard holdings.

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Definitions.

The Health Humanities is the study of the intersection of health and humanistic disciplines (such as philosophy, religion, literature)  fine arts, as well as social science research that gives insight to the human condition (such as history, anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies.)* 

*Obtained from the Health Humanities Consortium and adapted from the National Library of Medicine’s definition for Medical Humanities.( https://healthhumanitiesconsortium.com/hhc-toolkit/definitions/ )

Health humanities brings together a variety of disciplines, drawing on the humanities and social sciences, as well as work in the arts, to understand aspects of the human condition related to health and medicine. It encompasses the more specific field of medical humanities, which seeks to utilize humanities knowledge to improve medical research and practice, but just as commonly includes even more capacious approaches to understanding the cultural, ethical, and religious aspects of health across human history. (from: https://sites.bu.edu/healthhumanities/health-humanities/what-is/ )

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Citing Digitized Primary Sources

• What is a Digitized Primary Source?
• How do I Cite?
• Citation Generators & Management

Primary v. Digitized Primary v. Secondary

What is a digitized primary source .

A digitized primary source  is an online representation of a primary source. It may be an image of the item or represented with an online record or finding aid. 

A primary source (also called an original source) provides direct or firsthand evidence (a record) about an event, object, person, or work of art. A primary source is often written or created at the time under study. A primary source serves as an original source of information about a topic.

Different academic disciplines have different definitions of a primary source depending upon the discipline and the context in which the source is used. [1] An example of this would be in the natural and social sciences, primary sources are often empirical studies - research where an experiment was performed or direct observation was made. In journalism, a primary source can be a person with direct knowledge of a situation, or a document written by such a person. In the physical sciences, the results of empirical studies are typically found in scholarly articles or papers delivered at conferences and considered primary sources.Primary sources include: artifacts, articles, art objects, audio and video recordings, diaries, documents, eyewitness accounts, historical and legal documents, internet communications via email, blogs, listservs, and newsgroups..., interviews, fieldwork, manuscripts, objects, pieces of creative writing, results of experiments, speeches, statistical data, surveys

A secondary source is second-hand information written or created after an event, generally with the benefit of hindsight. 

[1] Cite Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primary_source

Cite Library of Congress https://ask.loc.gov/faq/303148#:~:text=A%20primary%20source%20is%20a,%2C%20manuscript%2C%20or%20art%20object.

Chicago Citation Guide (17th Edition): Primary Sources

https://columbiacollege-ca.libguides.com/chicago/primary_sources

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Research Instruction for 2024-2025

Welcome (back) to Yale Law School! 

As a new semester and year begins, the librarians here at the Lillian Goldman Law Library have new research courses to offer, as well as some beloved staples. Research courses range from 1-3 credits, with some meeting over the whole term and other meeting for only a portion. From generalized courses to subject specific, we're sure you'll find something valuable.  

This semester's offerings are:

• Units: 2, Credit or Fail  
• Instructor:  Steven Mitchell  
• Thursdays 4:10 PM-6:30 PM, SLB-111
• In recent decades, American courts have taken an increased interest in incorporating interdisciplinary research into their legal decision-making process. This course introduces students to interdisciplinary research sources and methodologies in legal practice through the lens of two areas which have recently gained legal valence: history and language. Through exercises, research projects, and discussions of readings, students will learn how to critically address the pragmatic and theoretical questions a practicing lawyer should consider in research and apply them to legal research: namely how to practically identify, find, evaluate, apply, and ethically use information in the context of legal advocacy. 
• Units: 1, Grade Mode: Credit or Fail
• Instructors:  Jason Eiseman, Steven Mitchell, and Nor Ortiz
• Wednesdays 3:10 PM-5:00 PM, SLB-122 (first seven weeks of the term)
• This class will explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the field of legal research. Students will gain hands-on experience with AI technology, gaining a solid foundation in AI and its practical applications within law: how AI tools can enhance general productivity, innovative scholarship, and revolutionize law practice. Through hands-on workshops, case studies, and discussions with industry experts, students will learn to leverage AI responsibly and effectively, preparing them for a future where AI is an integral part of legal work and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the AI landscape with confidence and creativity.
• Units: 1,  Credit or Fail
• Instructor:  Kathryn James
• Wednesdays 1:10 PM-3:00 PM, Law Library - Rare Book Room (first seven weeks of the term)
• This course equips J.D., LL.M., and M.S.L. students with the skills and experience to engage with rare book and manuscript collections for legal historical research. The course focuses on medieval and early modern legal practices of textual production, circulation, and reception, to introduce practices and methodologies applicable to the study of textual artifacts for other historical periods. The course will meet in the Law Library’s Rare Book Room and the Beinecke Library, drawing on Yale University’s internationally-recognized law rare book and manuscript collections. Topics include: manuscript and print traditions; approaches to paleography; professional writing and legal documents; histories of law publishing, circulation, and readership; material cultures of law practice; collection development and canon formation.
• Assignments will be hands-on, asking students to engage with rare book and manuscript collections each week. Some examples include: transcribing a passage from an early modern manuscript; locating a citation in early manuscript and printed editions of a text; describing the material and textual components of an historical legal document.
• Units: 1 or 2, Credit or Fail, counts toward experiential unit requirement
• Instructor:  Nicholas Mignanelli
• Wednesdays 3:10 PM-5:00 PM, Baker Hall 124 (first seven weeks of the term)
• This research course intended for aspiring movement lawyers and critical legal scholars begins with a deconstruction of the traditional legal research process and an exploration of Critical Legal Research methods and strategies. In the classes that follow, students will be exposed to the respective research methods, practices, and sources of critical legal studies, feminist legal theory, and Critical Race Theory. This course concludes with an examination of the political economy of legal information and critical assessments of emerging law practice technologies. Students who wish to qualify for a second unit will need to write a paper.  Late Drop Policy: Students must attend the first class meeting.

For a complete list of courses offered by our librarians this year, please visit our Research Instructions page .