Research Guides: Dibner Library: Research Basics

Where to Begin?

You may find it helpful to begin with an overview of your topic before delving into in-depth research.

Your textbook or other class readings may have summaries and bibliographies of recommended readings.
Review reference sources such as encyclopedias for background information.
Browse our collection of subject guides for links to relevant websites and library databases.
Meet with a librarian to discuss possible research strategies.

Utilize the Ask a Librarian chat, which is available 24/7

Schedule a one-on-one research appointment with a librarian

Reach out to dibner.library@nyu.edu

This table provides a contrast of engaging in library research versus web searching.
Research Elements	Library Research	Web Searching
Search Tools	Online Catalog (e.g. BobCat) Databases (e.g. Science Direct)	Search engines (e.g. Google) Directories (e.g. Librarians’ Internet Index)
What You’ll Find	Books, articles, and other published materials	Mostly web sites (of varying quality)
What it Costs	The library covers the high costs of database subscriptions so you don’t have to pay for articles you find.	Information on web sites is generally free. If you do find books and articles, you may have to pay for them.
Quality Control	Materials are subject to various degrees of editorial review to check information for accuracy and credibility.	Web sites are often not reviewed. Extra caution is needed when evaluating information on the web.

If you need to build or brush up your academic research skills: