How to Take Advantage of Your School Library

It’s tempting to think the only academic research tool we need is internet search. Yes, Google and other search engines can turn up a lot of information, but it’s not always reliable or helpful.

One of the best benefits of being a college student is access to voluminous amounts of information through the school library for your projects, discussion board posts and research papers. The Herzing University (HU) Library offers a wealth of resources from academic journals (scholarly journals), magazines and newspapers to case studies, videos and transcripts. These materials are up-to-date, credible and free for students to use through the library subscriptions.

Where to find resources:

Log in to Blackboard and look for the Library tab. Once there you can find resources by using one of the many collections organized in databases subscribed to by the HU Library. These databases include special features to search through millions of entries efficiently and effectively. You will find materials not available on the open web – and you can complete your research much faster and with focused, quality results.

Use the Databases A-Z list to see and review all of the options, or use a subject link to get to specific databases grouped by program (Business, Nursing, Technology, etc.). In addition, look for the Guides. These have been created to showcase and link to library and internet resources for a particular program or subject area. The library also has recorded research tutorial sessions, plus a whole section of materials to help with APA formatting and citations. With Herzing Blackboard access and an internet connection these materials are available to students 24-7!

How we can help:

If you need help getting started in the HU Library, contact the HU librarians. A team of five professionally trained librarians will help you navigate the library resources to identify relevant resources for your research and work out the best search strategy to find what you want. The librarians enjoy working with students and are eager to assist! The HU librarians are available 68-plus hours a week via phone, email and chat. Students may also request a Research Consultation appointment. Look to the Library tab in Blackboard for a full listing of hours and contact details.

Why it's important to use the library:

Your next employer will expect you to know the difference between an “internet search” and more in-depth research. They will also expect you to be knowledgeable about finding, evaluating and using the best resources. The knowledge and skills you gain at HU by becoming familiar with library resources and using the library services will provide you with a great base for success with academics, on the job and throughout your life. The Herzing University Library is online for you to use, and the Herzing University librarians are ready to help!

Dawn Haggerty is a Librarian at Herzing University working with students across the entire Herzing University System. She has been with Herzing University since 2008 and is dedicated to providing research support to students, staff and faculty.

Beth Huwe is the Senior System Librarian at Herzing University. Beth works with librarians, faculty members and administrators to plan and provide resources, reference services and library learning opportunities to all Herzing University students.