Foundational Learning and Engagement Librarian
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Librarian
Welcome
Library Research Seminar Introduction
The Summer Institute library research seminar will help you develop the college-level research skills necessary to find, analyze, evaluate, and cite resources for your ES 112 Writing Assignment and future college research projects.
By the end of the Library Research Seminar, you should be able to:
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Describe how to get research help in person and online at Kennedy Library
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Find relevant information sources constructing queries using search term (keyword) strategies and filtering in Kennedy Library’s OneSearch catalog and subscription databases
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Analyze the structure/characteristics of information sources, especially scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles
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Cite information sources using appropriate citation style guidelines
Do you need research help?
Your Summer Institute librarians are here to help! Send us an email with your question:
- Mercedes Rutherford-Patten (she/her): Email Me
- Kyle Tanaka (he/him): Email Me
- Cassandra Swartzwelder (she/her): Email Me
If you want a quicker response, use 24/7 Live Chat Help.
Workshop Materials
- Library Research Seminar Presentation (.ppt)Access links to resources discussed during the seminar. You must log into your Cal Poly account to access.
- Library Research Seminar Presentation (PDF)PDF copy of the powerpoint presentation.
- Summer Institute Library Research Seminar ActivityWorksheet for finding and citing sources
- Library Research Seminar SurveyPlease take a few minutes to complete this anonymous survey. You’ll be asked about your experience including what you learned, what you want to know more about, and what questions, comments and/or suggestions you have. Your feedback helps us provide additional research support and make improvements to the seminar for future students. Thank you!
- Citation Help Research GuideLearn about the MLA Citation Style (includes examples).
- Research 101This guide offers self-guided tutorials, handouts, videos and more on research skills.
- Library Services During Building Transformation ProjectThis guide includes news and updates related to accessing Library services and collections.
Resources
- Cal Poly Library Catalog
A great place to start your research!
Covers books, articles, and more that you have access to through your Cal Poly ID. - Google Scholar
A good alternative to find sources.
If you find something interesting, search the title in the library catalog (OneSearch) to get access. - Library DatabasesA-Z list of all databases at Cal Poly.
Try filter by subject for more specific results.
