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The Mortensen Library’s Reference Services staff provides assistance and informal instruction to users in the library. Formal instruction in library research consists of:
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Information Skills Tutorial
Developed as a basic introduction to using the library, this nine-part online tutorial:
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- Introduces the concept of focusing a research topic and developing search statements to use with electronic.
- Teaches the basics of using the University Libraries' catalog to find books and other materials.
- Demonstrates use of general and subject-specific databases.
- Introduces internet search engines.
- Discusses the need to evaluate information sources.
- Provides examples of citation styles. Each section includes online exercises. A printed worksheet for student use is available for downloading from the first page of the Tutorial.
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Formal Instruction
Reference librarians will design a presentation for your class, addressing research tools and techniques needed for a specific class or assignment. |
- The presentation will build on the basic skills presented in the Information Skills Tutorial. Students must complete at least Parts 1 through 4 of the Tutorial before the presentation. Completion of the entire Tutorial is recommended.
- Classes usually take place during a single class period in the Woods Family Center for Learning and Instruction classroom (L203C), which is equipped with a projector and 16 computers for students to use during the session. Extended or multiple sessions are possible.
- Since students will have time during the class to use the resources, they must have a research assignment and at least a general topic to research.
- To ensure a successful class,
- Attendance of instructor is required and active involvement in the session is requested.
- Instructors can ask the questions that students may not.
- Instructors provide guidance about the research assignments and can provide assistance to students during the practice time.
- Contact the Reference Services Department (860.768.4142) at least one week ahead to discuss your specific needs.
- Consult the Woods Family Center for Learning and Instruction policy for additional information.
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Library Work Sessions
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- Faculty may rquest time for their students to engage in faculty-led research in the library as a group.
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Please follow these guidelines when making arrangements: |
- Contact the Reference Services Department (860.768.4142) a minimum of two working days in advance. Additional notice is recommended, as the number of classes exceeds capacity at certain times.
- Students should have completed the Information Skills Tutorial before the session. A formal instruction session (see above) is also advised.
- Work sessions will be scheduled in the Woods Family Center for Learning and Instruction whenever possible. This facility has 16 computers.
- A librarian will be available for consultation and to provide assistance but not intensive instruction.
- Because of limited space, class meetings in the library without prior scheduling are not permitted. Unscheduled classes will be asked to leave.
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| Individual Faculty Instruction |
- Faculty may request individual instruction sessions by contacting reference librarians. Your Graduate Assistant is welcome to accompany you. Call 860.768.4142 for an appointment.
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| Reference Consultations |
- Librarians will also schedule time to work with faculty or students on specific projects.
- Call 860.768.4142 or email for an appointment.
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