| Opening Questions |
- Hello! How can I help you?
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| Background Inquiry |
- What topic are you searching for?
- Is this for a class or personal research?
- What have you tried so far? Databases? Internet? Books?
- What type of sources are you looking for? Scholarly articles? Newspapers? Books?
- What keywords are you using to conduct your search?
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| Preparing the Search |
- Help the patron come up with a list of keywords for their research. Use synonyms for existing words, and broaden their search by looking for related concepts.
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| Using the Catalog/Databases |
- Walk the patron through how to use the catalog and databases-- our goal is to be able to have them duplicate the search process on their own moving forward.
- Use multiple variations and combinations of your keywords during your search, NEVER STOP AFTER ONE SEARCH.
- Review articles and abstracts with the patron to try to find what they're looking for. Have them look up the articles along side you or email them permalinks to the articles to access later.
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| Closing |
- Were we able to find what you're looking for? If no, keep searching. If struggling to find resources, direct them to the librarian on duty.
- Is there anything else you are needing assistance with? Another inquiry?
- If you have any other questions for me, please don't hesitate to come ask! My coworkers and I staff this desk in the afternoons and we are always here when you need research assistance!
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