Free seminars in research skills, citation tools, data management

The University Libraries have scheduled a wide range of free seminars this semester to help students, faculty and staff with their research needs. Classes are available in basic library research skills and the following citation management tools: Zotero, Endnote and Mendeley. Additional introductory level and advanced level classes will be offered in LionSearch, Penn State’s powerful library search engine. In addition, two workshops will be held on data management. The full line up of classes, including descriptions and direct registration links, is listed below.  More details and registration information are also available from the Libraries’ website.

Library Research Basics
Learn how to find books, articles, and other materials in your research area or major through online library databases, and find out about library services that will help streamline your research process. Research basics classes are open to the public—individuals not affiliated with Penn State can register by calling 814-865-9257.

Introduction to LionSearch
LionSearch is a search engine that provides fast, simple access to relevant, high-quality materials from the University Libraries. LionSearch provides an integrated search of the CAT (online catalog), our databases and e-journals, our e-books and our local collections. This session will cover the LionSearch interface, and how to search, refine and secure quality resources for your research projects. Learn how to save, email and print results as well as export citations, all from within LionSearch.

Tuesday, September 24, 2:30-3:30 p.m., W315 Pattee

Advanced LionSearch
This advanced seminar on LionSearch will cover the LionSearch interface, and how to search, refine and secure quality resources for your research projects. It will also explore Google Scholar and discuss when to use Google Scholar versus LionSearch for specific research needs.

Monday, September 30, 2 – 3 p.m., W 315 Pattee Library

Introduction to Mendeley
Mendeley is a free reference manager and academic social network that can help you organize your research library, collaborate with others online, and discover other relevant papers based on what you are reading.

Introduction to EndNote
EndNote can be used to search online bibliographic databases; organize references, images and PDFs in any language and create bibliographies and figure lists instantly. Attend one of these seminars to learn how to get the most out of EndNote.

 

Introduction to Zotero
Zotero is a free, easy-to-use Firefox extension that helps you collect, manage, cite and share your research sources. It lives right where you do your work—in the web browser itself. All classes will be held in W315 Pattee Library

Data Management Workshop        
This class will focus on data management plans, best practices for data management and online tools for storing and sharing your files. You will also learn about ScholarSphere, Penn State’s secure repository service.

If you anticipate needing accessibility accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please call Rachelle Eisenhower, at 814-865-9257 or email rae15@psu.edu.