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Santa Monica College Library

Introduction to Research

This is a brief introduction to research in the Library, how to decide on a research topic, how to find relevant materials and how to cite them.

OneSearch

OneSearch

OneSearch allows searching many of the library's databases and its catalog and includes e-books and some trusted web content.
 

Advanced Search

Finding Books in The Library

Books are helpful when:

  • You need a broad overview or an in-depth look at a topic.  
    • Example: Child labor

Books may not be as helpful when:

  • The topic is very recent. Books take a long time to get written and published. 
    • Example: Information about the latest labor strike
  • You have a fairly narrow topic.
    • Example: Information about the current minimum wage

Start searching using the library catalog, OneSearch, to find out which books our library owns! You can search for books in the catalog by author, title, or by subject. If you are looking for information on a topic and do not have a specific book in mind, try searching the catalog by subject

 

How to Use OneSearch

The library catalog, OneSearch, will give you the information you need to locate a book. Select a book you are interested in and look for the following information: 

  • Number of copies available
  • Location of the book
    • Pro-tip!: Reserves are located at the circulation desk.
  • Call number
    • Pro-tip!: Call numbers group books on similar topics together so when you go to the book stacks, you may find other books on your topic nearby.

The library catalog, OneSearch, can be used to search for ebooks. After entering your search terms, use the following filters that appear on the left side of your results to specify that you are interested in ebooks:

  • Availability
    • Available online
  • Format
    • Books

To access the ebook, select a database listed under View Online.