The 20-Minute Rule

If you have been working hard trying to locate information for a research project for 20 minutes and haven’t found what you need, stop and ask a librarian for help. Let the librarian know what searches you’ve tried, and he or she will be able to help you figure out new strategies to get to the books, articles, and other sources you need. In addition, the librarian can help you develop strategies to improve your research and writing skills. Doing research without a librarian is like driving cross-country without a map or GPS—technically, you can do it, but you will get lost along the way and may not get to your destination on time. Get to know at least one librarian as your go-to expert. College librarians are dedicated to helping students.