*Getting Started at Bethel University Library

What is LibSearch? Why use it?

LibSearch gathers together information about all types of library materials. Whether you need a commentary on Philippians, an article for a biology class, or a musical score, LibSearch will help you quickly discover how to find what you need. Some items are physically on our library shelves, while others can be accessed online with just a few clicks.

LibSearch is a great place to start researching because it includes the broadest range of materials. Logging in with your Bethel credentials also allows you access to unique benefits, including instant renewal of materials you have checked out, options to save items or searches to revisit later, or the ability to request books and articles from other libraries through interlibrary loan.

How do I choose keywords?

Identifying the right keywords or search terms can help you access the right resources more quickly. First, identify the key concepts in your research question. 

Then, begin making a list of possible keywords before beginning your research. Below are a few suggestions to help you brainstorm:

• Synonyms for the concepts you want to research
• Broader and/or narrower terms for your subject
• Alternative viewpoints about your topic 

Below you will see an example of how this process might work.

Research Question: What are the most effective methods of improving the quality of cross-cultural communication in the workplace?

Identify key concepts:  Communication / Cross-cultural / Workplace

Once you have a list of keywords, consider how you might combine them when searching. 

What else should I know when searching?

• Use filters or limiters (on the left-hand side) to help narrow down your results. Choosing a specific resource type, publication date range, subject, or language can help you get the results that are most likely to benefit your research. You can also limit your search results to content from only peer-reviewed journals.
• If you find an article that seems promising, read the abstract & skim the introduction and conclusion before downloading.
• If you find a book that seems promising, read the summary or table of contents to try and quickly determine if it's a potential resource for you.
• Use the sources cited or the bibliography of a promising resource to find more sources about your topic.
• If a specific journal title keeps popping up, consider doing a journal title search to see what other related articles are being published.  
• Consider finding 20% more resources than the minimum requirement. Once you start reading your sources more carefully, you will be glad to have alternatives or additions.

Learn more about advanced searching