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How can I get help on my research project or paper?

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Five Things to Know

  1. There are lots of people in the library who are happy to help you with your research question, including librarians, student research consultants, and writing center student consultants.
  2. There are both in person and online options for getting research help.
  3. The librarians do NOT expect you to already know how to find books or use library databases – we know that most students do not have experience with this before college and that is OK!
  4. Librarians and student research consultants can help you with your research at any stage, from coming up with a topic to finding and citing sources.
  5. Getting help with your specific research question is NOT cheating. Instructors are happy when their students use these services.

People Who Can Help

NOTE: The location of the Lamson Reference Desk has changed! It is now just across from the entrance on the main level of the Library.

Lamson Reference Desk,

First Floor of Lamson Library

Make an appointment

Writing Center,

Lower Level of Lamson Library

Make an Appointment

A Deeper Dive

  1. When you work with a librarian or student consultant we always start by having a conversation about your research project. There are no right or wrong answers when you’re telling us about your research; we just need to understand your work to know how best to help. During this conversation you can ask for as much or as little help as you like.
  2. You might already know the name of the article or book you want and just need help finding it. Or you might not really know what topic you want to research for your project and want to do some exploring together. Or you might be close to the end of your project but need help with citations. All of these questions (and more) are ok to ask.
  3. Many students seek help when they are frustrated with the results of their searches; they are not finding what they expected or hoped to find. Often trying different search terms solves this problem, and librarians have lots of tricks and strategies for figuring out what search terms will get you the sources you need.
  4. We do not discuss your questions with anyone unless you ask us to. If you would like us to let your instructor know that used the research support services (sometimes this is assigned as extra credit) we are happy to do so, but otherwise the interaction is private.
  5. You can ask for help finding information that doesn’t relate to a research project. We can help you find information for projects and issues outside of your course work, resources about a hobby, or just a book to read for fun.
This resource was last updated on July 19, 2023

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How can I get help on my research project or paper?
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