Jen Library Reference Department

Recordings from our fall quarter workshops are now available! Use the links below to access them.

Image Research Basics – 16 min. – Brief introduction on why and how to access high quality art images via ArtSTOR and the Digial Image Database

The C.R.A.A.P. Test – 39 min. – Learn to evaluate the quality of any book, article or website with this handy test

Word Up! Keyword Search Savvy – 29 min. – Discusses how to improve search results by using keywords effectively

Searching Beyond SCAD’s Libraries – 30 min – Use Worldcat, Google Books, Google Scholar and ILL to expand your research beyond the SCAD Libraries collection

CC image by Flickr user statelyenglishmanor

Whether you are new to college research, or need a refresher and skills boost, there is a Library workshop for you. Two workshops take place this week, each with two time options for your convenience. No need to RSVP, just choose a time and log in.

Research Survival 101

• Online:   Sunday, April 17^th @ 2pm / Monday, April 18^th @ 8pm
• http://scadconnect.scad.edu/researchsurvival101/
• Does writing research papers feel like an impossible task? Are you full of great ideas, but not sure how to get them down on paper? Do trustworthy, professor-approved sources seem to elude you? If you answered YES to any of the above questions, attend Research Survival 101 online! Intended for those who are new to college-level research, this interactive workshop will provide practical strategies for staying organized, focused, and creative with research assignments. Come ready to share ideas and questions.

Advanced Research Survival

• Online:  Sunday, April 17^th @ 5pm / Tuesday, April 19^th @ 8pm
• http://scadconnect.scad.edu/adv_researchsurvival/
• You’re a research survivor – now take your skills to the next level. This interactive online workshop is intended for anyone who is already familiar with the SCAD library catalog and databases, but wants to go beyond the basic resources. We will discuss practical tips such as constructing advanced keyword strings, “hacking” Google to discover interesting library resources, obtaining items from non-SCAD libraries, and more. Ideal for those writing senior and graduate theses, and anyone who wants to improve their searching overall.

CC image by Flickr user chrissam42

Would you like to understand what makes a “good” info source, boost your searching skills, go beyond Google and Wikipedia, or locate the best quality digital images? Then come to a library workshop this quarter! Most events are free and open – some online, some in person – just log in or show up.

Library-phobia: Don’t Fear! A Librarian is Here!

• Online:  Sunday, January 16^th @ 3pm / Thursday, January 20^th @ 8pm (for eLearners)
• http://scadconnect.scad.edu/libraryphobia/
• Does the thought of using the library make your palms sweat?  Has it been years since you’ve even been in a library?  Do you have any questions about libraries but are too embarrassed to ask?  If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, this workshop is for you!  A librarian will give a brief overview of what a library has, what is can do for you and make you feel more comfortable using it.  Time will be allotted at the end for questions and answers.  No RSVP is necessary – just log in.  Log in as a “guest”, if you would like to be anonymous.

Research Survival 101

• Online:   Sunday, January 23^th @ 2pm / Monday, January 24^th @ 8pm
• At the River Club: first floor, Thursday, January 27^th @ 6pm
• http://scadconnect.scad.edu/researchsurvival101/
• Does writing research papers feel like an impossible task? Are you full of great ideas, but not sure how to get them down on paper? Do trustworthy, professor-approved sources seem to elude you?  If you answered YES to any of the above questions, attend Research Survival 101 online! This interactive workshop will provide practical strategies for staying organized, focused, and creative with research assignments.  No RSVP is necessary – just log in.

Advanced Research Survival: Library Resources Beyond the Basics

• Online:   Sunday, January 23^rd @ 5pm / Tuesday, January 25^th @ 8pm
• http://scadconnect.scad.edu/adv_researchsurvival/
• You’re a research survivor – now take your skills to the next level. This interactive online workshop is intended for anyone who is already familiar with the SCAD library catalog and databases, but wants to go beyond the basic resources. We will discuss practical tips such as constructing advanced keyword strings, “hacking” Google to discover interesting library resources, obtaining items from non-SCAD libraries, and more. Ideal for those writing senior and graduate theses, and anyone who wants to improve their searching overall! No RSVP is necessary – just log in.

Introduction to ARTstor and the SCAD Digital Image Database (registration required)

• Jen Library Room 108:  Thursday Jan. 20, 2:30-4:00pm / Wednesday Jan. 26, 12:-1:30pm
• The session will demonstrate the fundamentals of searching the online resources ARTstor and SCAD Digital Image Database, saving image collections, and creating class presentations using the ARTstor Offline Image Viewer. Participants will also learn how to have images added to the SCAD Digital Image Database to fill the needs of specific courses and student presentations. To register for this session or to make an appointment for individual training, e-mail the Visual Resources Center at vrc@scad.edu.

Workshops at the ACA Library of SCAD-Atlanta

• The Atlanta library is offering drop-in research sessions, finding images for fashion and research, and more! See the full list here.

CC image by Flickr user Jurvetson

The Library Reference Department will host some sweet online workshops over the next few weeks. Students can log in to these free workshops from almost anywhere – simply point your browser to the URLs below at the appointed times. Whether you’d like to get a grip on managing your time, learn just what the *heck* a database IS, exactly, or master the power of Google Scholar, we have a workshop for you:

Time Management: Researching at the Library (online)
Sunday, June 27th @ 4pm / Monday, June 28th @ 3pm

Do you have a big research paper coming up? Did you promise yourself you wouldn’t procrastinate this quarter? Are you tired of all-nighters? Attend this workshop and learn how to manage your time to reduce stress, save time and improve your grades!

http://scadconnect.scad.edu/timesummer10/

Research Survival 101 (online)
Sunday, July 11th @ 1pm / Monday, July 12th @ 8pm

Does writing research papers feel like an impossible task? Are you full of great ideas, but not sure how to get them down on paper? Do trustworthy, professor-approved sources seem to elude you?

If you answered YES to any of the above questions, attend Research Survival 101 online! This interactive workshop will provide practical strategies for staying organized, focused, and creative with research assignments. Come ready to share ideas and any questions you might have.

http://scadconnect.scad.edu/researchsurvival101/

Advanced Research Survival – Library Resources Beyond the Basics (online)
Sunday, July 18th @ 3pm / Monday, July 19th @ 8pm

You’re a research survivor – now take your skills to the next level. This interactive online workshop is intended for anyone who is already familiar with the SCAD library catalog and databases, but wants to go beyond the basic resources. We will discuss practical tips such as constructing advanced keyword strings, “hacking” Google to discover interesting library resources, obtaining items from non-SCAD libraries, and more. Ideal for those writing senior and graduate theses, and anyone who wants to improve their searching overall!

http://scadconnect.scad.edu/adv_researchsurvival/

Questions? Contact the reference department at ref(at)scad(dot)edu

CC image by Aaron Jacobs

The finish line is in sight! The Fall Quarter at SCAD wraps up on Thursday, November 19. During this busy time the Jen Library can offer:

• A range of spaces – cozy chairs, group & individual study rooms, large tables – for both personal and group work. Open until 1 AM through Thursday night.
• Research help at the ref desk, via email, Ask a Librarian, and IM from 8AM – 9PM through Thursday. Even if you’re at home in your jammies we can help!
• Montgomery Hall too busy? Use our advanced MAC lab on level three. All of the software that is in Monty is in that room too!

Most importantly: do not sacrifice your health and sanity just to complete your assignments! There are many ways to take care of yourself during this busy time, but there are three biggies to remember:

1. Eat and sleep: Lack of proper food and rest will wear you down and make you more susceptible to sickness; the last thing you want right now is to spend the day in bed, unable to get your work done. Take extra care to eat healthy meals (ehem, candy bars from the vending machine do not count) and if you do need to pull an all-nighter, try to rest up the next day.

2. One step at a time: If finishing a project seems akin to climbing Mount Everest, try breaking it into smaller, manageable tasks. Flexibility is important too: this is just as true with the research process as it is with making art. If one material, source, or topic does not work, can you shift what you’ve started into something more ‘do-able’?

3. Take a break: Have you been re-writing the same sentence for the past half-hour? Take five minutes to walk around the block, stretch, breathe deeply, have a cup of coffee, put on some loud music and rock out, etc.  Working nonstop saps your energy and creativity. Short, periodic breaks will allow you to rest your eyes, mentally re-focus, and come back to your project refreshed and ready to make REAL progress – saving you time.

Stress management resources:

• SCAD’s Counseling Services provide stress management workshops that are specifically geared toward the needs of artists. They also provide one-on-one counseling sessions. Login to MySCAD to learn more.
• SCAD’s Writer’s Studio (AKA Writing Center) can provide assistance with planning and writing research papers. Make an appointment with them on MySCAD.
• UGA has an excellent website on Managing Stress for College Students with advice on a range of topics, including exercise, nutrition, spirituality, relationships, and more.

CC image by UBC Library Graphics

Did you know that fellow SCAD students are ready and waiting to help with your classes and assignments? SCAD Peer Tutors are upper-level students who have deep knowledge of their discipline, and of course know all the ins and outs of SCAD student life. Whether you need to master a complicated Visual Effects program, boost your design know-how, re-work a drawing, or write a research paper, they can help! And they work all across campus – in fact, there is probably a tutor in one of the buildings you visit regularly.

To view tutor profiles, learn about the program, and schedule an appointment:

• login to MySCAD (in a new tab)
• then return to this page and click here to enter the Peer Tutoring website.

Matt Fisher is one such tutor whose office is located in Jen Library, room 218 (2nd floor). His specialty is Reading Comprehension. Matt graduated with honors with a B.A. in English and Education, and is now pursuing the M.F.A. in Dramatic Writing at SCAD. Matt kindly answered a few questions about what he does. Read on…

Jen Library: What does ‘reading comprehension’ mean exactly, and why is it an important skill to have?

Matt: Reading comprehension entails the skills necessary to read effectively and understand what’s being said. Even if you’re a strong reader, it’s easy to fall into the trap of simply “looking at the words,” while thinking of something else. By developing skills in reading comprehension, you will cut down the time you spend on assigned readings, and have a better understanding of the content.

As Reading Comprehension tutor, it sounds like you can assist with a range of academic needs. What are some of the services that you provide to SCAD students (especially with finals)?

As finals approach, the concerns of heavy readings are compounded by research paper deadlines. If you need help learning and implementing editing techniques for your essays, or developing skills that will lighten the burden of assigned readings, consider setting up an appointment via MySCAD under reading comprehension.

What inspired you to become a Peer Tutor?

Before coming to SCAD, I had the chance to teach reading for several weeks in 7th grade and 12th. I love helping people in any facet of life, but pedagogy has proven itself to be one of the ways I can best do so.

Any other things you’d like to share?

This is a laid-back environment. We will take a look at whatever problems you have, and I will do my best to assist you. It’s a free service, so there’s nothing to lose.

Thanks Matt! Again, please visit the Peer Tutoring page on MySCAD to learn more and make an appointment.

CC Image by Reeding Lessons

Now that the Fall Quarter is halfway through, many of you are knee-deep in writing research papers. With all of the work that goes into research – from choosing a topic, finding and reading sources, and synthesizing your argument – it can be easy to overlook writing accurate citations. However, citing your sources (whether they are print, online, text, or image) is an essential part of this process.

Thankfully, there are some excellent resources out there to guide you in creating citations. Formatting in-text citations, reference lists, and bibliographies is not as difficult as it seems!

Citation how-to’s and tips:

• SCAD’s very own Writer’s Studio (formerly known as the Writing Center) has some excellent online handouts on creating citations in MLA, Chicago, and APA styles, as well as citing images. MySCAD login is required.
• You can also schedule a one-on-one writing consultation at the Writer’s Studio– contact them to learn more.
• I am a big fan of the OWL at Purdue website, which offers pointers on using the 2009 updated edition of MLA formatting, as well as in-depth explanations of several other citation styles.

Automatic citation generators:

• Several of SCAD’s databases, such as Art Full Text, Wilson OmniFile, and CQ Researcher have their own built-in citation generators. When viewing an article or abstract, look for a “cite” link that will give you a sample citation for that source.
• The instructify blog recently listed top 5 citation applications on the Web, including several generators.

Call me old-fashioned, but I don’t completely trust citation generators. Humans are smarter than robots, and not every research source falls into the precise citation-creation formula that the ‘bots use. It’s a good idea to double check any automatically generated citations against the most current manual. Lucky for you, we have all of the latest editions at SCAD Libraries!

• MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (2009 / 7th edition)
• MLA Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing (2008 / 3rd edition)
• The Chicago Manual of Style (2003 / 15th edition)
• A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations (Chicago / Turabian Style; 2007 / 7th edition)
• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2001 / 5th edition)

Happy citing!

Are you this committed to your writing?

Heads up Library fans -  it’s Writing Center Week! WC staff are hosting fun and practical events, workshops and consulting sessions in Savannah, Atlanta, and online.

Learn how to:

• Get your creative juices flowing with listing and brainstorming activities
• Use free online tools to stay organized and save time
• Master the fine art of revision
• Create perfect citations
• AND SO MUCH MORE!

To learn more, login to MySCAD and check out the Writing Center site under Resources Tab > Directory. The full schedule is listed there. And check out their Twitter and Facebook pages too!

Who's your favorite reading partner?

It’s the first week of the quarter. You’re finding your way around campus, settling into your classes, and becoming familiar with all of the places and people you need to get on with your daily life. It’s exciting, but overwhelming – it seems like a lot to keep track of.

Class readings are an important mark on the big to-do list. Many of you are starting to come into the Library to look for assigned texts. Here’s the rundown of some of the basic book-finding skills that will serve you well in the months (and years) to come.

http://library.scad.edu/ – the Library Catalog

• Your best buddy for looking up books
• Access it anywhere you’re online
• Simply type in the name of an author and/or title to see what is available.

When you find your book, jot down the call number and keep it handy. Also look for the location of the book. These include:

• The campuses – Jen (Savannah), Atlanta, and Lacoste
• Reference – use in library only. In the Jen library, these are on the first floor.
• Reserve – use in library only. Provide the call number and title to circulation desk staff

A note on the book’s status:

• Available = on the shelf and ready to check out
• Checked out & due date = someone else has it
• Use the request button to become next in line to read a checked out book, once it is returned
• You can also use ‘request’ to send a book from Atlanta to Savannah, and vice versa

Other handy information:

To learn more about book checkout and loan periods visit our policies page

Not sure where in Jen to find it? Take a look at our library floor plans

And you can always ask us to learn more!

This time of year, a lot of you are writing papers for your final exams. If you would like to get some help writing your paper, the Writing Center can help you out. All you have to do is make an appointment with one of their writing center representatives. Their website even has handouts you can use to help you write your citations. MLA, APA or Chicago/Turabian — they are all there!

Some of you may be saying, “Ok, but how do I find them? Where is this website? Where is the Writing Center?”

The Writing Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Jen Library, on the elevator end of the building.

Their website is where you want to go if you need their phone number or you need to know how to make an appointment or if you want to see those citation guide handouts. The website has moved. It used to be on the library website, but now you have to access it thru MySCAD. Here’s how:

1. Log into MySCAD

2. Click the “Resources” tab.

3. Find the Department Directory box and scroll all the way down to the bottom.

4. Click the link that says “Writing Center”.

Good luck with your finals!