Mirlyn Demystified: UMich Library Guide [You Won't Believe]

The University of Michigan Library, a cornerstone of academic research, relies heavily on its online catalog. Mirlyn, specifically, serves as this vital resource. Understanding university of michigan mirlyn is essential for navigating the library's vast collection. For example, Advanced Search Functions enable targeted information retrieval. Also, access to Electronic Resources greatly simplifies the research process for all library users.

Image taken from the YouTube channel thompsonlibrary , from the video titled University of Michigan Flint Mirlyn Advanced Search .

The University of Michigan Library stands as a cornerstone of academic life, and at its heart lies Mirlyn, the primary search tool that unlocks a universe of information.

But what exactly is Mirlyn, and why is it so vital for students, faculty, and researchers at UMich?

This guide will illuminate the power and potential of Mirlyn, revealing features that even seasoned users might not know exist. Get ready to discover how to make the most of this essential resource.

Defining Mirlyn: Your All-in-One Library Search

Mirlyn is more than just a search engine; it's a comprehensive discovery system for the University of Michigan Library's vast collections.

Think of it as a single window into a world of books, articles, journals, databases, and much more.

It allows you to search across almost everything the library offers, both physical and digital, providing a central access point for your research needs.

Mirlyn’s strength lies in its ability to connect you with resources regardless of their format or location within the UMich library system.

Why Mirlyn Matters: Unlocking a World of Resources

Mirlyn is essential because it provides a streamlined and efficient way to access the library's extensive resources. Trying to navigate individual databases or search for physical items separately would be incredibly time-consuming and inefficient.

Mirlyn centralizes this process, allowing you to conduct comprehensive searches from a single interface.

Furthermore, Mirlyn ensures that you are accessing licensed content legitimately. By starting your search through Mirlyn, you are authenticated as a UMich user, granting you access to subscription-based databases, e-journals, and other resources that would otherwise be inaccessible.

This is especially crucial for accessing scholarly articles and other academic materials that are often behind paywalls.

Beyond the Basics: Unveiling Hidden Potential

Many users only scratch the surface of what Mirlyn can do.

This guide will delve into some of Mirlyn's more surprising and lesser-known features, such as advanced search techniques, specialized search options for different material types, and tools for managing your library account.

Did you know you can use Mirlyn to request materials from other libraries worldwide through Interlibrary Loan?

Or that you can find subject librarians specializing in your area of research who can provide expert assistance?

These are just a few examples of the hidden potential within Mirlyn that we will explore in detail.

Who Should Use This Guide?

This guide is designed for all members of the University of Michigan community: students, faculty, and researchers alike.

Whether you are a seasoned library user or new to the UMich system, you will find valuable information and practical tips to enhance your research skills and maximize your use of Mirlyn.

Our goal is to empower you to navigate the library's resources with confidence and efficiency, unlocking new possibilities for your academic pursuits.

The previous section highlighted Mirlyn as the central search tool for the University of Michigan Library, emphasizing its role as a gateway to a vast collection of resources. But knowing what Mirlyn is is only half the battle. Now, let's explore how to actually get to Mirlyn and begin your search.

Navigating the UMich Library Website: Your Gateway to Mirlyn

Accessing Mirlyn is straightforward, but understanding the various pathways ensures you're starting your research on the right foot. The University of Michigan Library website serves as the primary portal, providing multiple entry points to this powerful search tool.

Multiple Paths to Mirlyn

The UMich Library website (lib.umich.edu) offers several convenient ways to launch Mirlyn:

• The prominent search bar on the homepage: This is the most direct route. Simply visit the library website, and you'll find a large search box, often labeled "Search Articles, Books, and More," front and center. This is your direct gateway to Mirlyn.

• The "Find" Menu: Look for a "Find" menu option on the library's homepage. Hovering over or clicking this menu will reveal a list of resources, including a direct link to Mirlyn. This option provides an alternative route if the main search bar isn't immediately visible.

• Direct URL: Seasoned users can bookmark the direct URL for Mirlyn. While the URL may change, it is often found in the Library website footer.

Visual Guide: Finding the Mirlyn Search Box

To illustrate these access points, let’s walk through each using visuals. See figures 1-3 for the search box/link on the library homepage, find menu and direct url respectively.

[Figure 1: Screenshot of the UMich Library homepage highlighting the main Mirlyn search bar.]

[Figure 2: Screenshot of the UMich Library homepage highlighting the "Find" menu and the Mirlyn link within.]

[Figure 3: Screenshot of the direct URL and search box]

Why Starting from the Library Website Matters

While it might be tempting to use general search engines like Google Scholar for your research, starting your search from the UMich Library website and accessing Mirlyn is crucial for several reasons.

• Access to Licensed Resources: The University of Michigan Library pays for access to a vast collection of databases, e-journals, and ebooks. These resources are often behind paywalls and not freely available to the public.

  You also like

  Michigan Salmon Season: Unlock Your Fishing Paradise!

• Seamless Authentication: When you access Mirlyn through the library website, you are automatically authenticated as a UMich user. This authentication unlocks access to the licensed content, allowing you to view and download articles, ebooks, and other materials without encountering paywalls or access restrictions.

• Ensuring Legitimate Access: Accessing library resources through authorized channels ensures that you are using them legally and ethically, respecting copyright laws and licensing agreements.

By consistently accessing Mirlyn through the UMich Library website, you ensure seamless access to the resources you need while adhering to copyright and licensing regulations. This simple step unlocks a world of information readily available to you as a member of the University of Michigan community.

The previous section highlighted Mirlyn as the central search tool for the University of Michigan Library, emphasizing its role as a gateway to a vast collection of resources. But knowing what Mirlyn is is only half the battle. Now, let's explore how to actually get to Mirlyn and begin your search.

Mastering Library Search: Optimizing Your Mirlyn Queries

Mirlyn's power lies not just in what it contains, but also in how you search. A well-crafted search query can be the difference between sifting through irrelevant results and pinpointing the exact information you need. This section unveils the secrets to conducting effective searches within Mirlyn, equipping you with practical tips and strategies to find information quickly and efficiently.

Basic Search Techniques: Building a Solid Foundation

Before diving into advanced options, it's crucial to master the basics. Mirlyn responds best to clear and concise queries. Here's a breakdown of essential techniques:

• Keyword Searching: This is the most common and straightforward method. Simply enter the keywords that best describe your topic. For example, instead of "What are the effects of climate change on polar bears?", try "climate change polar bears."

• Phrase Searching: Use quotation marks (" ") to search for an exact phrase. This is particularly useful when searching for specific titles, names, or established concepts. For instance, searching for "artificial intelligence" will only return results containing that exact phrase.

Advanced Search Options: Refining Your Results

Mirlyn offers a range of advanced search options to narrow down your results and target specific criteria. Accessing these features allows you to leverage precise parameters, significantly improving your search accuracy.

• Date Ranges: Limit your search to a specific time period. This is essential when researching topics where currency is critical, such as in scientific or medical fields.

• Material Types: Filter your results by material type (e.g., books, articles, journals, videos). This helps you focus on the resources most relevant to your research needs.

• Language: Restrict your search to materials published in a specific language. This is particularly useful when researching topics with a global perspective.

Crafting Effective Search Queries: Examples in Action

Let's look at some practical examples of how to combine these techniques for optimal results:

• Example 1: Researching the history of jazz music in New Orleans:

  • A basic search: jazz New Orleans
  • A refined search: "jazz music" New Orleans history date:1900-1950 material type:books This revised search uses a phrase, adds a location, requests materials from a specific time frame, and limits it to just books.

• Example 2: Finding articles on the impact of social media on teenage mental health:

  • A basic search: social media mental health
  • A refined search: "social media" "mental health" teenagers material type:articles date:2018-2023 Here, quotation marks are used to group key terms, "teenagers" is specified as the population, the search has been limited to articles, and the date range is recent.

Avoiding Common Search Mistakes: Steering Clear of Pitfalls

Even with the best techniques, it's easy to fall into common search traps. Here's how to avoid them:

• Too Broad: Avoid overly general terms that will return an overwhelming number of irrelevant results. Be specific and use multiple keywords.

• Too Narrow: Don't be so specific that you exclude potentially relevant results. Experiment with synonyms and related terms.

• Ignoring Boolean Operators: Mirlyn recognizes Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to combine search terms. Using these operators correctly can greatly refine your results. For example, climate change AND policy will only return results that contain both terms.

The previous section unveiled the power of Mirlyn’s advanced search options, demonstrating how filters and targeted queries can significantly refine your results. But what if you're not just looking for information in general, but a specific type of resource?

Beyond Keywords: Exploring Book, Article, and Journal Search in Mirlyn

Mirlyn isn't just a keyword search engine; it's a portal to a vast collection of books, articles, and journals. Understanding how to effectively search for each of these resource types can dramatically improve your research efficiency. Let’s dive into the nuances of each.

Finding Books: Your Gateway to Comprehensive Knowledge

Books offer in-depth coverage of subjects, providing context and a comprehensive understanding of complex topics. Mirlyn makes it easy to locate relevant books within the University of Michigan Library system and beyond.

Targeted Book Searches

While keyword searches often yield books, you can refine your search by using specific filters.

After performing an initial search, look for options to limit your results to "Books" or "Print Books" under the "Format" or "Material Type" filter. This ensures that your results primarily consist of book-length publications.

Searching by ISBN

If you know the ISBN (International Standard Book Number) of a specific book, you can directly search for it in Mirlyn.

This is the most efficient way to locate a particular book if you already have its identifying number.

Requesting Books from Other Libraries

If a book isn't available at the University of Michigan, Mirlyn can connect you to other libraries.

Look for options like "Request through Interlibrary Loan" to borrow the book from another institution.

Unearthing Articles: Diving into Scholarly Research

Articles, particularly those published in peer-reviewed journals, represent the cutting edge of research and scholarship.

Mirlyn provides access to a wealth of articles through its integrated databases and links to external resources.

Utilizing Database Search

Mirlyn’s "Articles" search often directs you to specific databases like ProQuest or JSTOR. These databases offer advanced search features tailored to academic literature.

Familiarize yourself with the search capabilities of these databases to maximize your results.

Keyword Refinement for Articles

When searching for articles, use specific keywords and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to narrow your results.

For example, searching for "climate change AND policy" will return articles that discuss both climate change and related policies.

Exploring Journal Indexes

Mirlyn also indexes articles from various journals.

You can search for articles within a specific journal by first locating the journal in Mirlyn (see section below) and then browsing its table of contents or using the journal's internal search function.

Locating Journals: Your Source for Serial Publications

Journals are serial publications containing a collection of articles, essays, and reviews. Finding specific journals or issues is crucial for staying up-to-date with the latest research in your field.

Searching by Journal Title

The most direct way to find a journal is to search for its title in Mirlyn.

Enclose the title in quotation marks (" ") for a more precise search.

Browsing Journal Holdings

Once you've located a journal, Mirlyn will display its holdings, indicating which issues are available online or in print.

Pay attention to the date ranges to ensure you're accessing the issues you need.

Accessing Electronic Journals

Mirlyn provides direct links to electronic journals, allowing you to access articles online.

Look for links labeled "View Online" or "Full Text Available."

Checking Physical Holdings

For journals available in print, Mirlyn will indicate the location and call number.

This allows you to physically locate the journal within the library.

By mastering these specific search techniques, you can unlock the full potential of Mirlyn and efficiently locate the books, articles, and journals you need for your research. Remember to experiment with different search strategies and explore the various filters and options available to you.

The previous section unveiled the power of Mirlyn’s advanced search options, demonstrating how filters and targeted queries can significantly refine your results. But what if you're not just looking for information in general, but a specific type of resource?

Your Library Account: Managing Holds, Renewals, and More

Mirlyn is more than just a search tool; it's also your gateway to managing your library account. Understanding how to access and utilize your account features is essential for effectively using library resources. It empowers you to take control of your borrowing, manage your requests, and stay informed about due dates.

Accessing and Logging into Your Library Account

The first step is accessing your library account through Mirlyn. Look for a "My Account" or "Sign In" link, typically located in the upper right-hand corner of the Mirlyn interface.

Clicking this link will redirect you to the U-M Weblogin page. Here, you will use your University of Michigan credentials (your uniqname and password) to log in.

Once authenticated, you'll be directed to your personal library account dashboard. This dashboard provides an overview of your current borrowing activity, holds, and any outstanding fines or fees.

Key Features of Your Library Account

Your library account offers a range of essential features designed to streamline your library experience. Let's explore some of the most important functionalities:

Placing Holds on Books

Encountered a book that's currently checked out? Don't worry, you can place a hold on it!

When viewing a book's record in Mirlyn, look for a "Request" or "Place Hold" button.

Clicking this button will add you to the queue for the book. Once the book becomes available, you'll receive an email notification and can pick it up at your preferred library location.

Renewing Borrowed Materials

Need to keep a book for a little longer? You can usually renew your borrowed materials online through your library account.

In your account dashboard, you'll see a list of the items you currently have checked out.

Next to each item, there will be a "Renew" button (if the item is eligible for renewal). Keep in mind that renewals are subject to certain restrictions (discussed later).

Viewing Borrowing History and Due Dates

Staying on top of your due dates is crucial to avoid overdue fines.

Your library account provides a clear overview of all your checked-out items, along with their respective due dates.

You can also view your borrowing history to keep track of the materials you've previously borrowed. This can be helpful for research purposes or simply to jog your memory about a book you enjoyed.

Limitations and Restrictions on Holds and Renewals

While placing holds and renewing materials are convenient features, it's important to be aware of certain limitations:

• Holds: The number of holds you can place at one time may be limited. Additionally, high-demand items may have longer wait times.
• Renewals: Renewal eligibility often depends on the type of material and whether another user has placed a hold on the item. Some items, such as course reserve materials, may not be renewable. You can also only renew an item a certain number of times.
• Overdue Fines: Promptly return materials by their due dates to avoid accruing overdue fines. Check the U-M Library website for the current fine schedule.

The previous section unveiled the power of Mirlyn’s advanced search options, demonstrating how filters and targeted queries can significantly refine your results. But what if you're not just looking for information in general, but a specific type of resource?

Unlocking E-Resources: Accessing Ebooks and Ejournals Through Mirlyn

In today's digital age, electronic resources like ebooks and ejournals have become indispensable tools for research and learning. Mirlyn offers seamless access to a vast collection of these digital materials. This section will guide you through the process of finding and accessing ebooks and ejournals, empowering you to leverage the full potential of the University of Michigan Library's digital holdings.

Identifying Ebooks and Ejournals in Mirlyn

When conducting a search in Mirlyn, it's crucial to distinguish between physical and electronic resources. Mirlyn clearly indicates the format of each item in the search results.

Look for the following clues to identify ebooks and ejournals:

• Ebook Indicators: Ebooks often display a prominent "Online" or "Electronic Resource" label. The record might also include a link that says "Connect to Ebook".

• Ejournal Indicators: Similar to ebooks, ejournals will have an "Online" or "Electronic Resource" label. The record typically includes links to access the journal's content, often specifying the available date ranges.

• Format Icon: Pay attention to the icons displayed next to each search result. A book icon usually represents a physical book, while a computer screen or globe icon often indicates an electronic resource.

Accessing and Downloading Ebooks

Once you've identified an ebook, accessing it is usually straightforward.

• Click the Link: Click on the "Connect to Ebook" link or a similar link provided in the record. This will typically redirect you to the platform hosting the ebook.

• Authentication: You might be prompted to log in with your University of Michigan credentials (uniqname and password) to verify your access. This is especially common when accessing resources from off-campus.

• Download or Read Online: Depending on the platform and the ebook's license, you may have the option to download the ebook for offline reading or read it online directly through your web browser.

• Specific Platform Instructions: Different ebook platforms (e.g., ProQuest Ebook Central, EBSCOhost) may have slightly different interfaces and downloading procedures. Look for on-screen instructions or help documentation provided by the platform.

Accessing Online Journal Articles

Accessing online journal articles through Mirlyn is similarly streamlined.

• Locate the Access Link: In the journal's record, look for a link that leads to the journal's website or a specific database where the journal is indexed. The link might say "Available Online," "View Journal," or specify a particular database (e.g., "JSTOR," "ScienceDirect").

• Specify Date Ranges: Note the date ranges for which the journal is available online. The library's access to a journal might not cover all years of publication.

• Navigate to the Article: Once on the journal's website or within the database, navigate to the specific article you need by browsing the issue or using the search function within the platform.

• Authentication: As with ebooks, you may need to authenticate with your U-M credentials to access the article, especially when off-campus.

Troubleshooting Common Access Issues

While accessing e-resources is generally straightforward, occasional issues can arise. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

• Authentication Errors: If you encounter an error message related to authentication, double-check that you're using your correct U-M uniqname and password. Clear your browser's cache and cookies or try a different browser.

• Access Restrictions: The library's access to certain e-resources may be limited by license agreements. Some resources might only be available to current students, faculty, and staff.

• Proxy Server Issues: If you're accessing resources from off-campus, ensure that your browser is properly configured to use the University of Michigan's proxy server. Instructions on how to configure your proxy settings are available on the U-M Library website.

• Contact Library Support: If you've tried these troubleshooting steps and are still unable to access an e-resource, don't hesitate to contact the U-M Library's support services for assistance. They can help diagnose the problem and provide further guidance.

By following these steps, you can confidently navigate Mirlyn and unlock the wealth of electronic resources available through the University of Michigan Library. Remember to pay attention to the format indicators, follow the access links, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Your access to ebooks and ejournals is a click away!

Unlocking E-Resources through Mirlyn empowers you with access to a wealth of digital knowledge. But what about those crucial readings assigned specifically for your courses? Mirlyn offers a streamlined pathway to find these essential materials, ensuring you're well-prepared for every class.

Course Reserves: Finding Required Readings for Your Classes

Mirlyn isn't just a portal to the vast library collection; it's also your key to unlocking course reserves. These are materials carefully selected by your instructors and made available for short-term loan, ensuring all students have access to the required readings. Let's explore how to navigate Mirlyn to find exactly what you need for your courses.

Searching for Course Reserves

Mirlyn simplifies the process of finding course reserves. You can search using two primary methods:

• By Course Name: Enter the course name or code (e.g., "Econ 101" or "Psych 230") into the Mirlyn search bar. Be as precise as possible for more accurate results.

• By Instructor Name: If you know your instructor's name, you can search for course reserves listed under their name. This is especially helpful if you're unsure of the exact course title.

After entering your search term, look for the "Course Reserves" filter on the left-hand side of the search results page. Selecting this filter will narrow your results to only items placed on reserve for specific courses.

Understanding Loan Periods and Borrowing Policies

Course reserve materials operate under different loan periods than general library items. The loan periods are determined by the instructor and can range from a few hours to a few days.

It's crucial to check the loan period for each item before borrowing it. This information is displayed in Mirlyn and on the physical item itself.

Overdue fines for course reserve materials are often higher than for regular loans, so returning them on time is essential. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific borrowing policies for course reserves, which can usually be found on the library website or by asking a staff member.

Physical vs. Electronic Course Reserves

The University of Michigan Library understands the importance of flexibility, offering both physical and electronic course reserves.

• Physical Reserves: These are physical copies of books or articles held at the library's circulation desk. You can borrow them for a limited time, usually a few hours, and use them within the library.

• Electronic Reserves: Increasingly, instructors are utilizing electronic reserves, which provide instant access to readings online. These might include ebooks, scanned articles, or links to online journals. Accessing electronic reserves typically requires logging in with your U-M credentials.

Mirlyn will clearly indicate whether a course reserve item is available physically or electronically. Electronic reserves offer the convenience of accessing readings from anywhere, at any time, making studying more efficient and accessible.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL): Expanding Your Search Beyond UMich

Mirlyn is a powerful tool, but even with its vast resources, the University of Michigan Library may not always have every single item you need. Fortunately, Interlibrary Loan (ILL) exists to bridge that gap, connecting you to materials held by libraries worldwide.

This service dramatically expands your research potential, giving you access to a global collection of resources.

What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL) and When Should You Use It?

Interlibrary Loan, often shortened to ILL, is a service that allows you to request materials (books, articles, etc.) from other libraries when those materials are not available within the University of Michigan Library system.

Think of it as borrowing from a global network of libraries, all working together to support your research and learning.

But when should you actually use ILL? Here are a few common scenarios:

• The item is not owned by the University of Michigan Library. A quick search in Mirlyn will confirm this.
• The item is checked out or otherwise unavailable. Even if the library owns the item, it might be in use by someone else.
• You need a specific edition or version of a work that the library doesn't have.
• You require materials in a format not available at UMich (e.g., a specific audio recording or microform).

In essence, if Mirlyn comes up empty, ILL is your next best bet.

Submitting an ILL Request Through Mirlyn: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of submitting an ILL request through Mirlyn is relatively straightforward. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Search Mirlyn: First, ensure that the University of Michigan Library does not own the item you need. Perform a thorough search in Mirlyn using relevant keywords, titles, and authors.

2. Locate the ILLiad Link: If Mirlyn confirms the item is unavailable, look for a link or button that says something like "Request through Interlibrary Loan" or "ILLiad." This link is often found on the item's detailed record page.

3. Log in to ILLiad: Clicking the link will take you to ILLiad, the University of Michigan Library's Interlibrary Loan system. You'll need to log in using your U-M credentials (uniqname and password).

4. Complete the Request Form: The ILLiad system will pre-populate some of the request form fields with information about the item you're requesting. Review the information and fill in any missing details, such as the specific edition you need or any notes for the lending library.

5. Submit Your Request: Double-check all the information and then submit your request. You'll receive an email confirmation that your request has been received.

6. Monitor Your Request: You can track the status of your ILL request by logging back into ILLiad. The system will show you where your request is in the process (e.g., "Submitted," "In Transit," "Received").

Understanding Turnaround Time and Delivery Methods

One important thing to keep in mind with ILL is that it takes time. The turnaround time (the time it takes for you to receive the material) can vary depending on several factors, including:

• The lending library's processing time: Some libraries are faster than others at processing ILL requests.
• Shipping distance: The farther the lending library is, the longer it will take for the item to arrive.
• The availability of the item: If the item is in high demand at the lending library, it may take longer to become available.

Generally, you can expect to wait anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for your ILL request to be fulfilled.

Be sure to plan accordingly and submit your requests well in advance of when you need the materials.

Delivery methods also vary. Physical items (books, DVDs, etc.) are typically delivered to a library location of your choice, where you can pick them up. You'll receive an email notification when the item is available.

Electronic items (articles, book chapters, etc.) are usually delivered electronically as PDFs. You'll receive an email with a link to download the file.

Interlibrary Loan is an invaluable resource for expanding your research capabilities. By understanding the process and planning ahead, you can leverage the power of ILL to access a world of knowledge beyond the University of Michigan Library's physical and digital collections.

Interlibrary Loan can open doors to resources far beyond the University of Michigan's physical and digital collections. But sometimes, even with access to this global network, the sheer volume of information can feel overwhelming. That's where the expertise of library staff comes in, offering invaluable guidance and support to navigate the complexities of research.

Seeking Expert Help: Connecting with Subject Librarians and Research Guides

The University of Michigan Library isn't just a repository of books and articles; it's also home to a team of highly skilled subject librarians dedicated to helping you succeed in your academic pursuits. These librarians, along with meticulously crafted research guides, are invaluable resources often overlooked by students and researchers alike.

The Role of Subject Librarians: Your Research Allies

Subject librarians are librarians with specialized knowledge in particular academic disciplines. Think of them as specialized research consultants.

They possess an in-depth understanding of the resources, databases, and search strategies most relevant to their fields.

How Subject Librarians Can Assist Your Research

• Tailored Research Strategies: Subject librarians can help you refine your research question, develop effective search strategies, and identify the most relevant databases and resources for your specific topic.

• Navigating Specialized Databases: Many academic disciplines rely on specialized databases that can be challenging to navigate. Subject librarians can provide expert guidance on using these resources effectively.

• Evaluating Sources: Determining the credibility and relevance of sources is crucial for academic research. Subject librarians can offer insights into evaluating sources and identifying scholarly materials.

• Citation Management: Keeping track of your sources and formatting citations correctly can be a daunting task. Subject librarians can provide assistance with citation management tools and techniques.

• Troubleshooting Access Issues: Encountering difficulties accessing online resources is a common frustration. Subject librarians can help troubleshoot access issues and ensure you can access the materials you need.

In essence, subject librarians can act as your personal research navigators, helping you chart a course through the vast sea of information and arrive at the most relevant and reliable resources.

Finding Your Subject Librarian

Connecting with a subject librarian is easier than you might think. The University of Michigan Library website provides several avenues for locating a librarian specializing in your area of study.

Methods to Find Subject Librarians

• Library Website Directory: The library website typically features a directory of subject librarians, organized by academic department or subject area. This directory allows you to quickly identify the librarian best suited to assist you.

• Departmental Websites: Many academic departments also list their designated subject librarian on their websites. Check your department's website for contact information and research support resources.

• Ask a Librarian: If you're unsure which librarian to contact, you can always use the "Ask a Librarian" service. Library staff can help you identify the appropriate subject librarian for your research needs.

Once you've identified a subject librarian, don't hesitate to reach out via email or schedule a consultation. They are eager to assist you with your research endeavors.

Research Guides: Curated Resources at Your Fingertips

In addition to subject librarians, the University of Michigan Library offers a wealth of research guides covering a wide range of topics. These guides are carefully curated by librarians and provide a starting point for your research.

What are Research Guides?

Research guides are online resources that compile key databases, journals, websites, and other materials relevant to a particular subject area. They serve as a roadmap, directing you to the most important resources for your research.

Benefits of Using Research Guides

• Focused Starting Point: Research guides provide a focused starting point for your research, saving you time and effort in identifying relevant resources.

• Expert Recommendations: The resources listed in research guides are carefully selected by librarians, ensuring their quality and relevance.

• Organized Information: Research guides typically organize information by topic, making it easy to find the resources you need.

• 24/7 Availability: Research guides are available online 24/7, allowing you to access them whenever and wherever you need them.

Accessing Research Guides

Research guides are readily accessible through the University of Michigan Library website. Look for a "Research Guides" or "Subject Guides" link on the library's homepage. You can then browse guides by subject area or search for guides relevant to your specific research topic.

By leveraging the expertise of subject librarians and the curated resources found in research guides, you can significantly enhance your research experience and unlock new avenues of discovery. Don't hesitate to tap into these valuable resources – they are here to support your academic success.

Video: Mirlyn Demystified: UMich Library Guide [You Won't Believe]

Play Video