This introductory guide for undergraduate students in the NAS program provides useful tips on:
These resources contain basic overview information that can be useful when you're just beginning your research:
Related Guides:
Once you have a good understanding of your topic and have selected a few keywords, LibrarySearch is a great place to start your research. It is a convenient way to search almost all of the library's resources using a single search box, and you can easily apply limits to more narrowly focus your search.
Sign-in through the MyUSM Portal for access to thousands of ebooks via the LibrarySearch catalog or one of our E-book databases below. In LibrarySearch, you have access to books listing "USM Access" or "UM System-wide Access" .
Example:
LibrarySearch is the combined library catalog for the entire University of Maine system. You can search the entire system, or select University of Southern Maine Libraries in the drop-down.
Other helpful tips:
Most databases, as well as LibrarySearch and MaineCat, assign subjects to books and articles. A subject is a designated word or phrase that describes an idea or concept and groups all articles or books about that concept together.
There are many ways you can get research materials from other libraries. In the vast majority of cases, there is no charge to you for this service!