Information Centers
libraries
Libraries are gateways to information where professional information managers--librarians--collect, classify, organize, and provide access to published information,whether in print or electronic form. Traditionally, libraries:
- Provide books and other information of interest and value to their users
- Organize information to make it easier to find
- Help library users find information
- Use available technology to provide resources
Libraries provide services in person, by phone, or online. In addition, many libraries serve as cultural and community centers where members of the community gather for information, cultural events, and other referrals to other resources in the community.
Libraries purchase books and periodicals that users can borrow, reference books for use in the library, and resources that can be searched online, including library catalogs and periodical databases. Today libraries purchase or subscribe to all kinds of online resources for their users, including electronic books, reference books, and periodicals.
Academic, public, and special libraries play an important role in your research. Each type of library has a uique mission and collection. Depending on your needs, some may do a better job of providing information for your particular project or topic than others.
Outcomes
After completing this tutorial, you will:
- be able to identify the different types of libraries and how they can contribute to your research
updated:
23/6/09