Culver's ENG190 Sections 36 and 39

Searching for and locating books:

The SLU libraries catalog can be found in two places on the main page of the library web site. You can find at the center of the three columns toward the bottom of the page and also as the first entry under the yellow research tab at the center top of the page.

Our books are all shelved according to Library of Congress call numbers. A quick guide to reading a call number will aid you in using the library. Around the library, by all the computers and at the elevators you will find a Location Guide providing details of which floor holds which call numbers.

Narrowing searches

One important step in every search is refining terms to match those used in the search systems. Typically we start with the words in our head (that is, natural language terms) and need to use the features in the search software to improve the quality of the search. To do this, always review the ‘descriptors’ or other subject headings listed. Look for terms that more accurately match what you intended for your search and re-execute with recurring revisions to improve your searches. This is a regular part of the research process and simply requires attention to detail and patience. And, please, always remember you may ask questions of a librarian -- someone who specializes in knowing these systems -- whenever you want assistance.

Helpful hint:

Consider adding the Pius Reference Librarians to your cell phone address book so you can easily phone with questions. The number is 314-977-3103.