Librarians are experts at finding quality information on the web and in library databases. These are some common problems librarians can help you resolve.
You’re having trouble finding the information you need.
- Your results aren’t quite the right topic.
- Your results don’t fit the criteria your teacher provided.
- You’ve found some sources, but you’re having trouble finding more.
- It feels like what you need doesn’t exist.
You’re not sure how to start your research.
- You’re not sure where to look.
- You aren't quite sure how to phrase your research question.
- You want to brainstorm with a professional about what types of sources might be useful for your topic.
You don't know which sources are a good fit.
- You want to learn how to sort through your search results.
- You need help determining whether something is a primary or secondary source.
- You are overwhelmed when you search.
You’re not sure if a source is reliable.
- You need help evaluating the trustworthiness of a source.
- You want to improve your skills at evaluating sources.
- You want to find a higher quality source than what you found on your own.
You’re not sure how to navigate a database.
- You need help using government websites like Census.gov.
- You want guidance on how to use library databases.
