CU Libraries Insider

Winter Break Schedule

Carlson Library will be closed the weekend before, as well as the Saturday after, Winter Break (That is… March 8th, 9th, and 15th).

Suhr Library will be closed the weekend before and after Winter Break (That is… March 8th, 9th, 15th, and 16th).

During the week of the break, Carlson Library will operate on an 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. schedule (except for Friday when it closes at 4:00 p.m.). Suhr Library will operate on an 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. schedule.

Carlson Library will resume its regular schedule on Sunday, March 16, opening at 1:00 p.m. and closing at midnight.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 22
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Research Workshops This Week

Before you take off for Winter Break and then Spring Holiday, you may want to take advantage of the four workshops that Carlson Library is offering this week.

Wednesday, March 5:
11:00 - 11:50 RefWorks: Creating a Customized Citation Database
2:00 - 2:50 Is it Plagiarism Yet?

Thursday, March 6:
11:00 - 11:50 Evaluating Web Sites - Trash or Treasure?
2:00 - 2:50 Searching the Internet: Best of the Web

RefWorks: Creating a Customized Citation Database focuses on a new tool to help you manage and format bibliographies for your papers. You can export citations from many databases into RefWorks, and then format the citations into bibliographies using RefWorks' hundreds of available output styles. Attend this session to learn how this tool can save you much time and effort!

Is it Plagiarism Yet? will help you to avoid research practices and mistakes that could have dreadful consequences for your grade. Attend this session to learn more about plagiarism and tips to avoid it.

Evaluating Web Sites - Trash or Treasure? is designed to help you determine which Web sites are credible and authoritative and which ones have unsubstantiated “facts” and opinions. At this session you will learn about criteria that you can use to critically evaluate Web sites.

Searching the Internet: Best of the Web is a great way to learn about strategies, tips, and specialized search engines to help you focus your results and locate higher quality information on the Web.

These sessions, held in room 201 in Carlson Library are open to all students. Attendance sign-in sheets will be collected and made available to professors (upon request) wishing to track student attendance.Space is limited. If you would like to reserve a seat or if you are a faculty member and would like to reserve multiple seats for your classes, please contact Ms. Karen Sheesman at 814-393-1841.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 22

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Libray Tip--Carlson Library Level B Closes

Access to Level B of Carlson Library has been closed for safety and security reasons. If you would like to use any of the older print journals stored there, please complete a journal request form and turn it in at the Circulation Desk. The forms are available at the Circulation and Reference desks as well as in the Periodicals Department. Requested journals will be available for pick-up at the Circulation Department, usually within the hour. Faculty: if you have special needs for your classes or yourself, please let us know and we will make appropriate arrangements.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 21
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Getting Started With RefWorks

Do you dread writing the bibliography or "works cited" section of your research papers and incorporating proper citations into your writing? The Libraries are offering a wonderful new tool to help you manage and format the citations for your papers. You can export citations from many databases directly into RefWorks, and then format the citations into bibliographies using RefWorks' hundreds of available output styles. By mastering this tool, you can save yourself much time and effort!

To get started, your first step is to create an individual account in RefWorks. To do this:
Go to www.clarion.edu/library

Select “RefWorks” from the “Services and Collections” menu. (If you are accessing RefWorks from off-campus, you will be prompted to log in at the Keystone Library Network PASS (Patron Authentication System) screen. See http://www.clarion.edu/library/IDHelp.htm for login help.)

Then, at the “RefWorks Login Center” screen, click on “Sign Up for an Individual Account” and follow the on-screen prompts to create your account. In the top-right section of the login center screen, there is a link to a tutorial. It is strongly recommended that you take the time to go through the various tutorial sections. They will familiarize you with the many features of RefWorks and allow you to learn how to use the service to its best advantage.

Now that you’ve created your account, you can begin exporting citations to RefWorks as you search various periodical databases and online catalogs. Unfortunately, not ALL databases offer an option to export citations directly to RefWorks, but most do. Look for an option to export citations to RefWorks in the same area as you typically access options to print, e-mail, or save citations. (You can also manually type references into RefWorks.) This is an example of the export option in the databases accessible via EBSCOHost:

After you select the database option to export citations to RefWorks, you will be prompted to log into RefWorks using the individual account login information that you created in step #3 above. (Make sure you have set your browser to allow pop-ups.) If you are exporting citations using an off-campus computer or from a non-registered IP address, you will have a multi-step login process:

You MAY first be prompted to log in at the PASS screen as in step #2 above.

You MAY ALSO be prompted to supply the RefWorks “group code” for Clarion University, identifying you as a Clarion user. This code was e-mailed to you when you created your individual account.

Finally, you will have to log in using the individual logon you created in step #3 above.After your citations are imported to RefWorks, you have a wealth of options available for managing them. You can organize them in folders, sort them in various ways, and format them into bibliographies in many output styles. You can even use the RefWorks Write-N-Cite utility feature to write your paper with automatic in-text citations. (You must download this utility to work in concert with MS Word on your computer.) Taking a bit of time now to familiarize yourself with this great product will save you loads of time later on when all of your papers are due!

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 21

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Library Tip -- Group Study Rooms

Group Study Rooms are available in Carlson Library on Levels A, 1, and 3. The rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although in special cases they may be reserved ahead of time.

Our policy states, “Study rooms are available for either individual or group use. Priority for study room space is normally given to groups of three (3) or more. Library staff may request that an individual study elsewhere when the space is requested for group use.”

In the event that groups need a study space and the room is occupied by fewer than three people, group members should first check the availability of other study rooms on Levels A, 1, & 3. If another room is not available, please request that Circulation Desk staff (Level 1) ask individuals to relinquish the room for group use.

Level 3 is a Quiet Zone, so if you expect to have a spirited discussion, please do so quietly or use a Group Study Room on Levels A or 1.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 20
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Trial Database -- Discovery Education Streaming Video

**Attention Education Majors and Distance Education Students**

Check out the streaming video, audio files (songs), articles, lesson plans, state curricular standards, and other features available for the next 30 days…

As part of our ongoing commitment to acquire the best resources possible at an affordable price, the Library is making available – on a trial basis - Discovery Education's UnitedStreaming Plus database. This database contains over 8,000 media titles in subject areas ranging from Health, Language Arts, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Visual and Performing Arts.

Student teachers may find several features of this database useful in preparing for their classes. The Teacher Center allows educators to create assignments and select or create quizzes for students to use. Lesson plans are available with links to appropriate videos tied to the curriculum.

Videos may be streamed directly from the Web site (note: the download feature does not work during the trial period). Closed captioning is available and can be selected as an option within the personal preferences area or within the individual video being accessed. Videos can be embedded into PowerPoint programs to provide instructional reinforcement.

To access this database, go to the Library's home page at: file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/LNORRIS/My%20Documents/EMAIL%20NEWSLETTER/www.clarion.edu/library and click on "Discovery Education Streaming" link located at the top of the page in blue letters. Remember if you are accessing this from home, a log-in box will open up on the screen before you can get into the database. You may use your iClarion username and password or Students will need to use 9 + their Clarion student ID number to log in. Faculty must use 0000 + their employee ID number. Please let us know how useful this database is to you.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 20

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Library Tip -- Videos, DVDs, and CDs

Looking for videos, DVDs and CDs? Carlson Library has been adding numerous titles and even more are on the way. Suggestions for others are most welcome.
To locate them, first go to PILOT, the online catalog of library resources. For videos and DVDs, select “Video” in the “Set Single Limit” option search box. Enter the title or topic in the regular search box as usual and click on search.

For CDs and other media items, click on the “Set Limits” box on the lower right side of the PILOT search screen. In the “Location” box select either “Media CDs Collection” or “Media Collection.” Then click on the “Set Limits” bar at the top left of the screen. You may then continue a keyword (or other) search for your topic. (Through a fluke in the system, subject search will not work, but keyword searches will.)

If you have questions or difficulty, contact a reference librarian at 393-2490.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 19
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

New Database - AnthroSource

AnthroSource is the premier online resource serving the research, teaching, and professional needs in the subject fields associated with anthropology. It contains current and back issues of fifteen of the American Anthropological Association’s peer-reviewed publications, as well as other bulletins and newsletters.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 19

New Database -- WorldCat

WorldCat is a global catalog of resources held by more than 60,000 libraries around the world. It’s the premier source of bibliographic records for more than 98 million titles representing more than a billion items. If you’re looking for information on publications in all formats other than individual magazine and journal articles, this is the best place to check. It also includes a growing number of electronic resources and digital objects.

Information seekers on the Web who visit Google, Yahoo, and other popular sites can discover items in the Clarion University Libraries through search-result links to WorldCat.org, where you identify your location. Select the library and you are redirected to the item record in PILOT, our online catalog of holdings. If you use social networking tools such as Facebook, you also have the ability to launch searches and obtain results with links to WorldCat.

If the Clarion libraries don’t have what you’re looking for, the publication information in WorldCat can be used to request it through our Interlibrary Loan service. In the coming months, we will be installing new software to make that process easier and quicker.The addition of WorldCat, the linking it supports, and the related improvements in interlibrary loan services are supported by the Student Technology Fee.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 19
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Library Tip -- Renew Your Materials Online

Although you can renew your books by calling or visiting the library, wouldn’t it be nice to renew your materials with a click of your mouse?

With a few simple steps, you will be able to access your library account online and process your own renewals! Go to PILOT, the library’s online catalog of resources, and click on the link at the top of the page which reads, “Renew Books.” Enter your library ID number. Enter your last name, and click “Login.”

Students: Your Library ID Login is 9 + your Clarion ID number.
Faculty and staff: Your Library ID Login is a nine digit number consisting of four leading zeroes plus your employee ID number.
Once you have logged in to your library account, you can view what you currently have checked out. Check the box beside the items that you wish to renew, click “Renew Items,” and a new screen will show you the new due dates for your materials.
*Please note: You cannot renew your library books online if they are already overdue or if they have already been renewed once. To request a renewal under these circumstances, please contact:
Carlson Library at (814) 393-2301 or Suhr Library at (814) 676-6591.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 18

New Database -- STAT-USA

STAT-USA provides a single point of access to authoritative business, trade, and economic information from the U.S. Government on both domestic and international matters. The information is accessed through either of two sections:

1) State of the Nation contains over 2,000 current (and nearly 35,000 historical) federal economic and financial reports. These include general economic indicators such as the Consumer Price Index, Producer Price Index, and Gross Domestic Product; housing and construction data; employment and unemployment statistics; manufacturing and industry indicators such as retail sales data, manufacturing, trade, inventory and sales figures, and industrial production reports; monetary statistics; and economic policy reports.

2) GLOBUS (Global Business Opportunities) & NTDB (National Trade Data Bank) contains daily trade leads from the Trade Opportunities Program as well as the Department of Agriculture. It offers daily procurement activity from the Defense Logistics Agency, the United Nations, and the Commerce Business Daily leads. The NTDB provides access to Country Commercial Guides, Market Research reports, Best Market reports, and other programs. The International Trade Library is a comprehensive collection of over 40,000 documents related to international trade. All are full-text searchable as well as keyword searchable by country or product.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 17
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Thursday, January 31, 2008

FROM THE COMMENTS & SUGGESTIONS BOX...

Comment:
“Need people who understand the Wiki site better.”

Response:

Thank you for your comment. However, the University Libraries does not maintain a Wiki site.

Some faculty members create Wikis for their courses, however, only the professor and members of the class have access to those types of Wikis. In such a case, you will need to consult with your professor or possibly the Computing Services Help Desk (814-393-2640 or http://www.clarion.edu/computing/HelpDesk_index.shtml).

If it is a Wiki associated with a Blackboard supported course, you may want to check out the Blackboard Web Page (http://www.clarion.edu/cs/ltc/blackboard/bb7login/) or contact the 24/7 Blackboard Help Desk at 1-866-434-8882.

Unfortunately you did not provide contact information when you submitted your comment through our online Suggestion Box. Without it and not knowing any more information about your problem, there is little that we can do to follow-up with you other than this message.

Terry S. Latour
Dean of Libraries
January 31, 2008

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Library Tip - Comments & Suggestions

Do you have comments or suggestions that you think will help us to improve library services? Share them with us either through our online Suggestion Box (we have traditional suggestion boxes in each of the libraries too) or through our CU Libraries Insider Blog. If you provide contact information, we will provide you with a personal reply.

If the response to a question or comment is appropriate for other library users, it will be posted either through the Blog or in the notebook beside the Carlson Library Suggestion Box. Let us hear from you about what we can do to improve our services.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 17

New Database - Safari Tech and Business Books Online

If you are looking for up-to-date information relating to technology and business, Safari Tech & Business Books Online may be the answer. It provides access to 92 electronic books in these two subject fields on topics that are timely. It’s often difficult for libraries to keep up to date with changing information or trends in these areas and Safari Books is one way for us to address this need.

You may search the Safari Tech & Business Books Online site for the topic of interest to you, browse the titles available there, or search PILOT, the library’s online catalog of resources, for the titles or subjects that you are interested in. Hotlinks will take you to the appropriate Safari electronic books.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 17
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

New Database - Credo Reference

Credo Reference provides nearly 300 reference titles, with 3.1 million entries, from 58 of the world’s leading publishers. They contain authoritative information across a broad range of knowledge, including the subject fields of art, biography, business, food, geography, history, language, law, literature, medicine, music, philosophy, psychology, quotations, religion, science, social science, and technology. These information resources take the form of atlases, chronologies, dictionaries (including bilingual), encyclopedias, factbooks, guides, handbooks, reader’s or subject companions, and who’s who listings.

Whether you are looking for quick facts or more in depth information on a topic, Credo Reference is a good place to begin your search. Subject searches may be conducted at the Credo Reference Web site. If you happen to be searching PILOT, the library’s online catalog of resources, for a specific title and it is available electronically in Credo Reference, a hotlink will lead you there. Check out this award winning service made available through the support of the Student Technology Fee program.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 17

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Library Tip - Closing Routine

Those of you who are late evening library users or late afternoon users on Fridays and Saturdays, may already know that Carlson Library has a special closing routine.

To allow our small staff to clear an enormous building, Levels A, 2, and 3 are closed 15 minutes before the building closing time. Level B normally closes at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday evenings, and 30 minutes before closing on other days.
Level 1, the entrance floor, remains open until the posted closing time. We ask your cooperation in helping to clear the floors promptly.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 16
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

New Database - Praeger Security International Online (PSIO)

Praeger Security International Online (PSIO) provides in-depth analysis on security issues that threaten to destabilize the world. It includes a news feed from the International Herald Tribune and an ever growing range of content from a global network of content partners.

Special features include weekly commentaries by scholars and experts in the field; an archive of more than 1,000 important primary documents; a terrorism chronology; and an authoritative annotated bibliography. New content on crucial issues includes the topics of:
· Immigration and Border Control
· Psychology of Terror
· Disaster Response
· Transportation Security
· Counterinsurgency
· Weapons of Mass Destruction
· Energy and Security A news feed is available within PSIO and an RSS feed is available to help keep you better informed.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 16

New Database - CQ Researcher Online

CQ Researcher Online is an award winning service that offers comprehensive reporting and analysis on issues in the news. It’s noted for its in-depth, unbiased coverage of health, social trends, criminal justice, international affairs, education, the environment, technology, and the economy.

About every week or so, CQ publishes a single-themed, 12,000-word report on a new topic. Its reader-friendly organization provides researchers with an introductory overview; background and chronology on the topic; an assessment of the current situation; tables and maps; pro/con statements from representatives of opposing positions; and bibliographies of key sources. Available reports date back to 1991.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 16
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday & Weekend

Carlson and Suhr Libraries will be closed on Monday (January 21st) in recognition of the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Carlson Library will have special hours on Saturday, January 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will be closed on both Sunday and Monday. Suhr Library will be closed on all three days.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 15

New Databases And Services

With the new year, we are introducing a number of new information resources and services. In the coming weeks, we will provide detailed information about each of them - and several more are still in the works. Student Technology Fees are paying for several of these.

New Databases:
AnthroSource, journals, newsletters, and bulletins relating to the field of anthropology.
CQ Researcher Online, reports and analysis on contemporary political and social issues.
Credo Reference, hundreds of information reference sources in electronic form.
PILOT, online library catalog of holdings, book reviews, tables of contents, author notes and book jacket artwork for many of the more recently published titles in the collection.
Praeger Security International, information on terrorism and security, including humanitarian and peace operations.
Safari Tech & Business Books Online, electronic books in the fields of business and computer information systems.
STAT-USA, a single point of access to authoritative business, trade, and economic information from the U.S. Government.
WorldCat, bibliographic information on more than 80 million titles held in more than 60,000 libraries around the world.
New Services:
Eagle Gold Search, an option to search multiple databases at one time.
Interlibrary Loan, new software that makes it easier for you to request the information resources you need and helps us to get them to you quicker.RefWorks, an online research management and writing tool that makes it easier to gather, manage, store, and share all types of information.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 15
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Welcome Back!

The staff and faculty of Carlson and Suhr Libraries welcome you back for the 2008 Spring Semester. Whether you are on one of Clarion’s campuses, taking classes at a remote location, or enrolled in an online course, we are here for you. Please don’t hesitate to stop by - or call us - for your information service needs.

Carlson Library Reference Desk
814-393-2490
Carlson Library Circulation Desk
814-393-2301
Carlson Library Interlibrary Loan Office
814-393-2481
Suhr Library
814-676-6591

Or contact us through our Web page at: www.clarion.edu/library.
If you are a distance education student, we have a range of special services just for you. Check them out at our Distance Learning Web page, http://www.clarion.edu/library/distance.shtml, or call us toll free at 1-866-272-5612, and press #3 for library.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 15

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Library Tip - Return Day

Friday, December 7th is library return day. All library items should be returned that day to avoid fines and lost item charges. If you need an item beyond Friday, please consult with the Circulation Department.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 14
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Library Tip - Protect Your Valuables

The end of the semester and the Holiday Season are times when you should take extra care to protect your valuables. Don’t leave textbooks, backpacks, purses, MP3 players, computers, or other valuables unattended. They could disappear before you know it.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 14

It's Not Too Late

It’s not too late to get help with end of the semester papers and research projects.

While they won’t be available in the wee hours of the mornings, the reference librarians at Carlson and Suhr Libraries will be available during weekdays and most weekday evenings until 9:00 p.m., as well as on Saturday at Suhr Library and Sunday afternoon in Carlson Library. Stop by the libraries or call Carlson Library at 393-2490 or Suhr Library at 676-6591. Distance Education Students may use the special toll-free number provided just for you.

If immediate feedback is not crucial, or if it’s a time when the reference librarians are not on duty, you may also submit requests for assistance using our Ask a Librarian online reference form. It is available at the library Website, http://www.clarion.edu/library/ under the “Services and Collection” heading.

Don’t forget about all the tutorials and resource lists also available at the library Website.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 14
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Carlson Library Open 24 Hours!

If you need a place to finish a research paper or to prepare for finals, Carlson Library is the place to be.

Carlson Library is now open 24 hours a day through Finals Week, with the exceptions of closing at 9:00 p.m. on this Friday and Saturday evenings. Databases, computers and borrowing services are available around the clock.

Reference Services are limited to:
Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 -5:00 p.m.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 14

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Interested in Chinese?

No, not just the food, but the full range of South East Asia Cultures and Languages.

Sandy Chen, Serials and Electronic Resources librarian, has compiled a series of Chinese Language and Culture Websites. From time to time we will share with you topic-oriented links that range from “Learning How to Speak Chinese” to “Chinese Regional Food Cuisine”.

The first topic is "Learn How to Speak Chinese." If you have any questions about getting started, please contact Sandy Chen at x2748. She is more than happy to assist you.

Conversational Mandarin Chinese Online:
http://www.csulb.edu/~txie/ccol/content.htm

Chinese Multimedia Elementary-Intermediate Level:
http://www.ctcfl.ox.ac.uk/Chinese/lessons.htm

China Through a Lens (27 lessons w/sound files):http://www.china.org.cn/e-learning/1.htm

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 13
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Library Tip – Avoiding Fines

How can you avoid library fines?

That’s easy, return borrowed items on time. Others may be waiting to use them. Book fines are only 20 cents per day, but fines for other items can be $1 per day and late laptop computers and power cords are $2.50 per hour (each) at the Carlson Library and $25 per day at Suhr Library. Fines can add up quickly, so get your library materials back on time.

The last day that library items are due back this semester is Friday, December 7.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 13

Papers Due?

Need assistance with that research paper or project that’s due next week?

The reference librarians at Carlson and Suhr Libraries can help. Stop by the libraries or call Carlson Library at 393-2490 or Suhr Library at 676-6591. Distance Education Students may use the special toll-free number provided just for you.

If immediate feedback is not crucial, or if it’s a time when the reference librarians are not on duty, you may also submit requests for assistance using our Ask a Librarian online reference form. It is available at the library Website, http://www.clarion.edu/library/ under the “Services and Collection” heading.

Don’t forget about all the tutorials and resource lists that are also available on the library Website.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 13
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Extended Hours

Beginning this week, Carlson Library will return to the practice of closing at 5:00 p.m. on Fridays instead of 4:00 p.m. The earlier closing time was imposed because of staff vacancies. New staff is now on board, so we will stay open longer.

Beginning next Monday, Carlson Library will be open 24 hours per day until midnight on the Thursday of Finals. The exceptions to this will be 9:00 p.m. closings on the Friday and Saturday between the last week of classes and Finals.

These changes are the result of suggestions by students and student groups. Please spread the word that the libraries are a good place to finish papers and study at the end of the semester.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 13

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Library Tip -- E-Books

To better support those of you needing library resources from afar, Clarion University Libraries have more than 16,000 books available in electronic form. They include fiction and non-fiction, books on literature, works on business, education, history and almost any subject, including an increasing number of reference titles. They can be accessed through PILOT, the online catalog of the University Libraries, or through NetLibrary, found either under the “Electronic Books and Web Resources” or “Find an Article” sections of the library Web site.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 12

Thanksgiving Break Hours

With Friday classes meeting next Tuesday and no classes being taught next Wednesday, Carlson and Suhr Libraries will operate on special hours:

Carlson Library
Tuesday November 20 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 21 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday November 22-24 Closed
Sunday November 25 1:00 p.m. – Midnight

Suhr Library
Tuesday November 20 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 21 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Thursday – Sunday November 22-25 Closed

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 12
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Four Weeks & Counting

At this point, most people are looking forward to the end of the semester and thinking about what they need to do between now and then. If you have a research project that’s stalled, maybe the reference librarians at Carlson and Suhr Libraries can help.

Stop by the libraries for tips and one-on-one instruction that can save you time – and a lot of frustration. If getting to the library when the reference librarians are on duty is a problem, call Carlson Library at 393-2490 or Suhr Library at 676-6591. Distance Education Students may use the special toll-free number provided just for you.

If immediate feedback is not crucial, or if it’s a time when the reference librarians are not on duty, you may also submit requests for assistance using our Ask a Librarian online reference form. It is available at the library Website, http://www.clarion.edu/library/, under the “Services and Collection” heading.

Don’t forget about all the tutorials and resource lists that are also available at the Library Website.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 12

Sunday, November 4, 2007

Computer Tip -- Print From YOUR Laptop

You bring your laptop computer to the library, do your research, and knock out a brilliant paper for that class assignment. What do you do next? Email it to yourself so you can print it out? That will work, but why not print it directly from your laptop? Here’s how:

* Open a web browser like Internet Explorer
* In the address bar, type the URL: www.clarion.edu/webprinting
* Choose the “Print Area”
* Print Area:1 – Carlson Library
* Print Area:4 – Suhr Library
* Double Click the printer you wish to use
* The printer drivers will install on your computer
* That printer will be available from the document print screen

That’s all there is to it! Go back to your document, and “print” the document. Then use the print release station to pay for, and actually print, the document.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 11
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

Library Tip -- Author Searching

When searching PILOT (the online catalog), author searches are formulated by typing the surname first, followed by a comma, a space, and the author’s given name. For example, John Grisham, should be typed in as: “Grisham, John” (without the quotation marks). Unfortunately, the libraries’ software is not as sophisticated as a Google or Yahoo type search. Therefore, if you type in an author’s name as it is spoken, (given name, surname – John Grisham) the computer will search for works by: Grisham John.

Remember to select “Author Search” in the “Search By” drop-down box on the right-hand side of the search screen.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 11

Tutorials Online

Need help finding the information that you need when the library is closed? Can’t navigate the databases that should have the things your need? Check out the tutorials and resources lists available at the University Libraries Web site. They are accessible under the “Tutorials and Pathfinders” drop-down box on the right-hand side of the screen. Some of the topics covered include:

Searching EBSCOHost Databases

Using PILOT to locate books and audio/visual resources

Using E-ZBorrow and UBorrow inter-library borrowing services

Finding journal articles

There are more than a dozen tutorials available, including a series of video presentations designed for Distance Education Students.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 11
www.clarion.edu/library/news/index.htm

University Libraries Blog

If you like to get your news via Blogs, or if you would find it easier to communicate with us via a Blog, check out our new “web Log” – the CU Libraries Insider.

Reach the CU Libraries Insider anytime using the link on the University Libraries’ homepage. Our Blog offers timely news and updates about library resources and services. If one of our posts prompts a question or comment, please click the link and let us know about it, and we will respond.

If you have comments or questions about a non-Blogged subject, let us know through the Suggestion Box link on our home page and (as appropriate) we will post and reply to it on the CU Libraries Insider Blog.

You may subscribe to CU Libraries Insider posts via an Atom RSS feed located at the site.

(Please note: the CU Libraries Insider is a “moderated” Blog and comments do not immediately show up on the site.)

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 11

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Library Tip -- Renewal of Borrowed Items

You may renew borrowed library materials for a second loan period if no hold has been placed on it. Most items may be renewed by calling the circulation desk (Carlson Library: 393-2301, Suhr Library: 676-6591) prior to the due date.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 10
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/home.htm

Library Quiet Zones

Need a quiet place to study or work on a research paper?

Levels 2 & 3 of Carlson Library are designated as Quiet Zones. In accordance with student preferences and campus culture, the Entrance Level and Level A are more open for group work and social interaction.

We ask all library users to help us offer alternatives for all preferences. If you are seeking a quiet location to study, please use Levels 2 & 3. If there are problems on Levels 2 & 3 with noise, we need your assistance and cooperation. If you receive a cell phone call or a friend stops by, please keep it quiet and brief or take the conversation elsewhere. If someone else is not maintaining the Quiet Zone atmosphere, please ask that person to do so. If the noise persists, please notify the staff at the Circulation Desk. If staffing permits, they will investigate.

Library staff members also attempt to enforce moderation on Levels 1 and A. If you think that it is too noisy there, please consult with our staff.

Library staffing is often limited, so please help to maintain Carlson Library as a desirable place to be.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 10

Documentary Film Maker To Speak

Join us Thursday, November 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the Rhoades Center Auditorium on the Venango Campus to hear documentary film maker, Lisa Gensheimer, present the program, “Turning the Tables: 20 Questions for Miss Tarbell.” Gensheimer researched, wrote, and produced the documentary film, Ida Tarbell, All in the Day’s Work. She will provide insight into the life and times of Tarbell and how she might respond to timely questions of her day and react to some to the events of today.

Tarbell, America’s pioneering investigative journalist, was a native of Titusville. She was one of the most feared and admired women of her time. Her investigative work into the business practices of John D. Rockefeller’s Standard Oil Company helped to convince the Justice Department that Standard Oil engaged in monopolistic business practices and should be broken up. Her exhaustive biography of Abraham Lincoln established a standard for other award winning writers to follow. Tarbell’s accomplishments and body of work gained her world-wide notoriety.

Gensheimer is an award-winning documentary producer and writer. Her career spans 30 years and endures in a range of media. She is a regular contributor to many regional and national publications and gained much recognition for her documentary, Safe Harbor, A Story of the Underground Railroad.

The Barbara Morgan Harvey Center for the Study of Oil Heritage, based in Suhr Library, is devoting the annual Barbara Morgan Harvey Lecture to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ida M. Tarbell.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 10
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/home.htm

Monday, October 22, 2007

Library Tip -- Group Study Rooms

When you’re working on a group project, check out one of the nine Group Study Rooms available in Carlson Library. They are located on Levels A, 1, and 3. The rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Our policy states, “Study rooms are available for either individual or group use. Priority for study room space is normally given to groups of 3 or more. Library staff may request that an individual study elsewhere when the space is requested for group use.”

In the event that groups need a study space and the room is occupied by fewer than three people, group members should first check the availability of other study rooms on Levels A, 1, & 3. If another room is not available, please request that Circulation Desk staff (Level 1) ask individuals to relinquish the room for group use.

Level 3 is a Quiet Zone, so if you expect to have a spirited discussion, please do so quietly or use a Group Study Room on Levels A or 1.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8

Remaining Library Instruction Sessions

PILOT and General Periodical Databases--Wednesday--4:30 p.m.
Education Research--Thursday--9:30 a.m.
Overview of Information Sources--Thursday--4:00 p.m.

For other help, contact a reference librarian at 393-2490 (Carlson) or 676-6591 (Suhr).

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/home.htm

Avoiding Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a hot topic on campuses across the country. It’s easy to cut and paste information from electronic resources into term papers. It’s just as easy for faculty members to use software programs to detect plagiarism.

On Wednesday morning at 9:00, Carlson Library will present its last session of the semester on “Avoiding Plagiarism.” It includes a discussion of plagiarism, possible repercussions of plagiarism, a broad overview of style manuals, and tips for avoiding plagiarism. Learn how to prevent serious mistakes by attending this session.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Library Tip -- Closing Routine

Those of you who are late evening library users or late afternoon users on Fridays and Saturdays, may already know that Carlson Library has a special closing routine.

To allow our small staff to clear an enormous building, Levels A, 2, and 3 are closed 15 minutes before the building closing time. Level B normally closes at 9:00 p.m. in the evenings or 30 minutes before closing on other days.

Level 1, the entrance floor, remains open until the posted closing time. We ask your cooperation in helping to clear the floor promptly.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8
http://www.clarion.edu/library/news/home.htm

Library Acquisitions

Students and faculty sometimes ask how they can prompt the library to acquire resources they think it should have. Here’s how:

Students: Make your suggestions to a reference librarian, in writing through our Suggestion Boxes in Carlson and Suhr Libraries, or through the Online Suggestion Box located on the library homepage.

Faculty: If you have identified specific titles, please submit your requests through your departmental library liaison, who will submit them to the library faculty member assigned to your department. If you would like to discuss your needs, please contact the library faculty member assigned to your department or Connie Gamaluddin (393-2329 or cgamaluddin@clarion.edu).

Funds are available to support the acquisition of reasonable requests for books, various types of media, and reference materials important for student instruction and research. Journal and database subscriptions require an ongoing commitment of funds, something that has been in short supply in recent years. Increased funding this year has enabled library faculty to work with academic faculty to identify subscription priorities. If you have not already passed along your suggestions to a library faculty member, please do so today.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8

Last Call For Instruction Sessions

Carlson Library instruction sessions will conclude next week.

Remaining topics include:

Developing a Research Strategy and Narrowing a Topic
PILOT and General Periodical Databases
Evaluating Web Sites
Avoiding Plagiarism
Education Research
Overview of Information Sources

For days and times, check out the Library Instruction Schedule on the Library’s Website under the “Services and Collections” menu or call the Reference Desk at 393-2490.

If you need help getting started with a research project, check with the reference librarians at Carlson and Suhr Libraries. Stop by the libraries or give them a call at 393-2490 (Carlson) or 676-6591 (Suhr).

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 8

Monday, October 8, 2007

Library Tip -- Journal Alerts

Do you want to keep up with the current issues of your favorite journals? It’s easy to set up journal alerts through the EBSCOHost interface. Many of the periodical databases provided by the libraries are available through EBSCO. See www.clarion.edu/library/guide/Ebsco.pdf for a complete list.

To begin, you must set up an account within EBSCO. To do so:

Access the EBSCO database of your choice from www.clarion.edu/library/journals.shtml
After accessing a database, click the “Sign-In” link at the top of the screen.
Then, click the “I’m a New User” link and follow the on-screen prompts to set up your account.

Then, to set up a journal alert,

Access the EBSCO database of your choice.
Click the “publications” link in the green banner near the top of the page. Note: Unfortunately, a publications link is not available in every EBSCO database.
Type the title of the desired journal in the “Browse Publications” box and click the “Browse” button. If the journal is indexed in the database, it will show up at the top of the result list. Under the journal title, you will see dates for which bibliographic records and/or full-text is available in the database.
Click on the journal title.
Click on the “Journal Alert” link to sign into your EBSCO account. Then follow the prompts to set up an e-mail alert for the selected journal. For best results, select HTML as the “E-mail results format.”

Please feel free to contact a reference librarian at 814-393-2490 with any questions.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 7

Research Help -- It's Later Than You Think!

Mid-Semester Break is behind us and the second half of the semester will pass by quickly. If you need help getting started with a research project, the reference librarians at Carlson and Suhr Libraries are here for you. Stop by the libraries or give them a call at 393-2490 (Carlson) or 676-6591 (Suhr).

The subject-oriented instruction sessions offered by Carlson Library will soon end. The remaining areas to be covered include Education and Women’s Studies, as well as the topics of “Avoiding Plagiarism,” “Developing a Research Strategy,” “Evaluating Web Sites,” and “Overview of Information Sources.” A few of the sessions on “PILOT and General Periodical Databases” will also be offered.

Don’t wait! For days and times, check out the Library Instruction Schedule on the Library’s Website under the “Services and Collections” menu or call the Reference Desk at 393-2490.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 7

New Database: Choice Reviews Online

Choice Reviews Online is a new database available to Clarion students and faculty. It contains thousands of reviews for academic oriented books, electronic media, and Internet resources that have appeared in Choice: Current Reviews for Academic Libraries. The database can be searched by title, author, editor, and keyword. Reviews date from 1988 to the present.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 7

Monday, October 1, 2007

Library Tip -- Electronic Journals

Did you know that you have access to more than 20,000 magazines, journals, newspapers, and reports through library databases? The full text of the articles in these publications is available through dozens of electronic databases that the library subscribes to. You may locate what you need in several ways.

Begin by going to the library Web page at: http://www.clarion.edu/library and clicking on the “Find Articles” drop down menu.

“Databases by Title” provides information on the major databases the library subscribes to. Two databases that include thousands of academic journals are Academic Search Complete and ProQuest Direct. Most other databases have a theme or focus. For these, try “Databases by Subject” for groupings in broad subject areas.

Library Newsletter, Vol. 3, No. 6