Information Literacy

Information Literacy: Research & Citation Help

Welcome to the Information Literacy resource page! Whether you’re researching for a paper, navigating databases, or citing your sources, we’re here to help you develop the skills needed to find, evaluate, and use information effectively. Additional information and screenshots in the Utilizing Library Resources module on canvas.

Research Tips & Database Searching

Start with Library Databases – Our library provides access to a wide range of academic databases covering various subjects. Use databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, PubMed, and EBSCOhost to find credible, peer-reviewed sources.

Use Keywords & Boolean Operators – When searching, try using specific keywords and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine your results. Example: climate change AND policy will find sources that include both terms.

Ask a Librarian – Need help finding sources? Schedule an appointment with Ms. Collins (jcollins@dillard.edu) for one-on-one assistance with searching databases, refining topics, and evaluating sources.

Evaluating Sources

Check for Credibility – Use the CRAAP Test (Blakeslee, S., 2004) to evaluate sources:

• Currency: Is the information up to date?
• Relevance: Does it fit your research needs?
• Authority: Is the author an expert in the field?
• Accuracy: Are sources cited, and is the information reliable?
• Purpose: Is the content biased or objective?

Beware of Misinformation – Not all online sources are credible. Be sure to vet your sources.

Citation Assistance

Where to Get Citation Help:

• Online Citation Tools – Use tools likeZotero, Mendeley, or Purdue OWL to help format citations correctly.
• Writing Center – Schedule an appointment with the Writing Center for citation review and formatting assistance.
• Avoid Plagiarism – Always credit your sources properly. If you’re unsure how to cite, ask a librarian or visit the Writing Center for assistance.

Contact & Additional Support

• Visit the Library Help Desk – Our librarians are available to assist you in person during regular hours.
• Email a Librarian – Send your research or citation questions to dulibrary@dillard.edu .
• Workshops & Tutorials – Join our workshops on research strategies, database navigation, and citation management.