Answered By: Jessica Howard
Last Updated: Jun 30, 2021     Views: 59

There are a variety of techniques that can help you to find sources for your research.  They include:

1. Identify new or different keywords to search.

This online guide suggests different ways to generate keywords.  It includes a tutorial on Choosing the Best Terms for Your Search.

2. Try searching in a different database.

There are a lot of library databases to choose from. The Choosing a Database tutorial can help you identify the best ones for your research.

3. If you've already found some sources, look at their bibliographies or list of sources cited to see if anything listed is pertinent to your research.  

If you identify a source that looks useful, try searching for the title in JumpStart.  Ask a librarian (contact info below) if you need help finding the source.

4. Think more broadly about what is relevant.

For example, if you were researching the impact of deforestation on bird species in the Florida Keys, consider whether sources that discuss the impact of deforestation on birds in other parts of Florida, or the southern United States, or other tropical archipelagos would be relevant.

5. Ask a librarian.

Librarians are trained professionals who can help you find the information you need.  

Contact us by email (ask@dickinson.libanswers.com, text message (717-366-6623), or online chat. Individual librarians are also available by appointment.