Introduction to SU Libraries: Graduate Student Boot Camp

As you make your way through your research, keep track of your searching through the use of a research log. This includes:

• Identifying keywords that you'll be using during your searching.
• Listing the databases that you have searched within.
• Keeping track of the keyword combinations you have used within the different databases you've searched within.
• Making note of the number of results you receive from each search performed.
• Considering making use of a citation management tool. SU Libraries supports ProQuest RefWorks, Zotero, and EndNote.

These tips will help you stay organized throughout your research process.

Have all the identifying information for an article, journal, or book, but don't know how to find it? Use all that information you do have to find the material with the Citation Linker (link provided).

Direct borrowing allows you to request and borrow items (books, DVDs, other materials) from other University System of Maryland (USM) institutions. You can engage in direct borrowing by requesting items from USM institutions when you are searching within the Libraries' catalog.

Interlibrary loan (ILL) is the process by which a library borrows materials from and/or lends materials to another library. Upon the request of the library user, the interlibrary loan staff obtain materials not available in the SU Libraries or the University System of Maryland. Requested items may include books, journal articles, DVDs, etc. All materials are obtained within the guidelines of copyright guidelines.

Unfamiliar with ILL? Complete the ILL Tutorial (link provided). The tutorial will walk you through registering for an ILL account (it's free!), how to request items, and how to retrieve items.