Research 101
Foundational Learning and Engagement Librarian
Find Research Sources
OneSearch (Library) Catalog
The OneSearch Catalog provides access to most of the resources available through our subscription databases.
- Video: The Four Flavors of Print Books Requests in OneSearch3 minute video explaining requests for physical items in order of how fast you can get to the item.
Subject-Specific and Multi-disciplinary Databases
- Using DatabasesThis 4 min tutorial shows you how to search well in most databases (courtesy of UCLA Library).
Tip: Each database and platform should have documentation available on how to make best use of these tools. Look for search tips/help buttons within the search interface, or on developer websites or user community forums/blogs.
Additional Resources
- Explore how Google Search WorksThis page links to training resources on how Google searches work, and lists of Google search operators, from Daniel Russell, Google Senior Research Scientist, Search Quality & User Happiness.
If you are logged into My Cal Poly Portal, you should automatically be able to access library licensed material from your own device.
A reliable way to troubleshoot access issues is to connect to Cal Poly's Virtual Private Network (VPN), available through GlobalProtect. Installation instructions are on the campus ITS website.
Many of the databases you use to find articles are discovery tools only, meaning you will then need to use the records you've found to access the actual documents. The tutorials below present a variety of ways to access full text articles.
- First Find by Citation!This is the fastest way to access an article you want that may not be in Kennedy Library's collection. Enter the DOI or PMID to auto-fill the form.
- Access articles and books through interlibrary loanUse this form to request to borrow items the library doesn't own/license. If you have a DOI for an article, entering it will fill out the rest of the form automatically. If you're able to find the item in Onesearch, you will find instructions for requesting a loan and will not have to provide as much information.
There is a growing variety of extensions you can add to your internet browser to search for legal access to free to read copies of articles with the click of a button. Some options are linked below.
- Open Access ButtonSearch for a free full text copy of an article you find online with one click, using a browser extension.
- UnpaywallBrowser extension to search for a free full text copy of an article you find online, using a large open database of free scholarly articles harvested from over 50,000 publishers and repositories.
Precision Searching Strategies
- Research Process Tips (Handout)A review of key strategies for getting started on your research assignment.
- Choosing and Narrowing Your Research TopicThis 3 minute video discusses how to:
• Choose an appropriately scoped research topic
• Overcome challenges in your search
• Locate a variety of information sources, including
"grey literature"
Courtesy of McMaster University Library
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