Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Using the Evans Library Catalog

(Especially for ER110 students)

Recalling (or not!) our last class, take a look at this short tutorial on using the Evans Library catalog: http://w2.fmcc.edu/library/Using_FMCC_Catalog/index.html

Once you've done that, complete this short tutorial on using keywords to make searching easier:
http://www.umsl.edu/services/libteach/keyword.html

What makes "sense" about the Evans Library catalog? Does it make finding information easier? What is confusing? Does using keywords and boolean logic help?

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Comparing Search Engines

(Especially for ER110 students)

Read this blog post: http://blogoscoped.com/archive/2009-06-07-n71.html and then go to the "Blind Search" link that is mentioned.

Enter a search term and compare the results. Did you choose the results of the search enginge that you usually use? Did it matter if the logo or branding wasn't there? Or, do you like the results or just how the results are displayed?

Me? I'm not sure yet!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

You Gotta Have Faith...or trusting the Internet.

(Especially for ER110 students!)

Take a look at this article:



http://ep.fmcc.edu:8081/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=40098826&site=ehost-live



When can Wikipedia be trusted?

What internet sources do you trust?

Why do you trust them?

Friday, October 2, 2009

Dinosaurs (and the Evans Library) Deliver


Although they're still in search of names (we're accepting submissions!) the unoffical library mascots, aka "the dinosaurs" recently took a trip to SUNY Brockport with some of the Evans Library staff. The purpose of the trip, besides getting allowing the dinosaurs to see a bit of the world, was to make sure that the Evans Library staff was updated on providing you, our users, with the best possible document delivery service.

What's document delivery? Without getting too "techy," it's what allows you to order, receive and access materials from other libraries. Or, as the Librarians like to refer to it, "online shopping without any bills!"

Most students and faculty probably know document delivery better as Interlibrary Loan. But for those of you who don't, here's a quick rundown of the services available to you:
Don't see what you need? We can get it for you - fast and free!. Interlibrary Loan lets you borrow books and articles from other libraries. It's really simple and easy. Take a look at the these quick steps, watch the short how-to-video and then start using Interlibrary Loan!

Interlibrary Loan Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What can be borrowed through Interlibrary Loan?

A: Books and articles that are not available at the Evans Library at FMCC.

Q: Who can borrow books through Interlibrary Loan?

A: FMCC faculty, staff and students, and Empire State College students. InterLibrary Loan services are not available to OpenAccess/SUNY or non-FMCC patrons.

Q: What is the loan period for books?

A: Generally the loan period is determined by the lending library - it's usually three weeks. Renewels are at the discretion of the lending library.

Q: How do I request books or articles through Interlibrary Loan?

A: You must have email and use ILLiad, the library's online service.

Q: How will I know when my request are ready?

A: You will be notified by email when your book or articles are ready - it's best to start checking your email account a few days after you send the request. Books can be picked up at the Evans Library Circulation desk. Articles will be emailed to you directly.

If you want a quick tutorial on using Interlibrary loan to order books, check this out

Ready to use Interlibrary loan? Go here

Interlibrary loan, or document delivery is just one of the many ways that the Evans Library works to make sure that you have access to the information you need and want for your research.

Questions? Stop in and see us in person, give us a call (762-4651 x5611), or shoot us an email (libinfo@fmcc.edu). We're always happy to help!