Exponent Explains: Library Research Center

The MSU Renne Library offers more than just computers, a quiet place to study and book recommendations for leisure. Not all students are aware of just how helpful the research center can be. Instead of spending hours trying to find the right sources for a project, only to be met with ads, scams or the need to pay to see all of the material, students have the opportunity to research in-depth materials with easier access.

This is available both through in-person drop-in sessions at the library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or online databases that can be found through the MSU website through the Research Center. Even more impressive is the ability for staff to help students research one-on-one. It allows the student to receive quality advising about what to incorporate in his or her project and how to navigate the databases.

The results cut project time in half. Researching aimlessly on the internet for sources that aren’t always accessible takes up a lot of time. It takes even more time to find a source that not only covers the topics of your project, but pairs well with it and gives it more life. But with great advising from someone who takes the time to understand the topic and purpose in detail, students can find the sources I needed within an hour appointment, allowing more time to think about the research content and how it can be used to support the project.

This is not the only way the Research Center can help students. Besides drop-in advising, requesting specific materials not found in the databases online or scheduling a one-on-one appointment, students can also get help online.

“You can go directly to our appointment scheduler on the ASK the Library page to make an appointment for targeted, one-on-one research assistance,” Professor Mary Hansen, Research Commons Librarian said. “We provide research assistance through our chat and email services, also listed under ASK the Library, extending our hours for research assistance beyond the hours that the research center is staffed. Additionally, you can contact your subject librarian directly through our ‘Subject Librarians’ page, again accessible under ASK the Library.”

This offers much more than just scholarly articles. According to Faculty & Graduate Services Librarian Professor Greg Notess, databases are also useful for finding counseling videos, music scores, geological maps, finance databases and chemical substructure searching. “Anytime you are looking for a book, article, DVD or other information resource, check with us at the library. Except for textbooks, we can often help you find and get access to information for free,” stated Notess.

Research librarians aren’t only a people who help look for research in a vast sea of categories the student could never understand. They work hard to help students learn how to research well on their own, and take the time to get to know the student and their topic to find the best possible resources to help them succeed.