Start Here

Use this guide to answer some of the most frequently asked questions. Also try our video tutorials & check out our Primo search system.

Recommended Research Steps:

1. Primo comprehensive library search (use filters like Online, Books, Articles, Reference Entries in the left margin)
2. The Library's Subject Databases (Click "Subjects" and select your broad subject, like Education or History)
3. Google Scholar (be sure to link this to Regent Library; click the menu; Settings; Library Links; look up Regent)
4. Use Research Guides on Your Subject (recommended databases and tools for your specific subject)
5. Work with a librarian through online chat, appointments, or submitting a question

Finding a Print Book: 

1) look up the topic, title, or author in Primo,

2) narrow to "Held by library in print" (optional),

3) write down the "call number" & find the book or click "Request Regent's Copy" to have it held for you at the desk

4) General Collection, Juvenile, Pentecostal, and Oversized books can be checked out; Reference cannot.

Fun Fact: “Call numbers” used to be called out to library staff who retrieved books.

When Finding a Book: Be Sure to Practice "Shelf Browsing"

• Look at the publisher, author, and year to see if they are credible & suitable for your assignment requirements
• Shelf Browser: Look at books on the same shelf and nearby shelves because they will be on similar topics
• Skim the Table of Contents (chapter titles) to see if the book is relevant to you--or even just one chapter
• Check the Index in the back to see if your topic is covered, being flexible with terms