Quick Reference Guide: Navigating the CSU Global Library
Welcome to the CSU Global Library. This reference article provides a comprehensive overview of the tools, databases, and support services available on the library website to help you succeed in your academic research.
1. Primary Search Tools
The main search engine at the top of the library homepage is the most popular tool on the website. It allows you to search across all subscription databases simultaneously for books, articles, and videos.
Main Search Box: Ideal for a broad, comprehensive search of all subscription catalogs.
Advanced Search: Click this link to load the full database search engine features.
Peer-Review Filtering: Within Advanced Search, you can toggle this filter on to restrict your results exclusively to peer-reviewed academic articles.
Instructional Video: A video tutorial is available directly beneath the search box to assist users who are new to academic article databases.
2. Specialized Database Collections
While the main search engine searches everything at once, it can sometimes return an overwhelming number of results. To narrow your focus, you can use specialized database lists:
A to Z Database List: An alphabetical directory of every subscription database. You can scroll through the list or use the dedicated search box if you know the exact database you need.
Databases by Subject: Databases grouped by academic discipline. This is highly recommended if you need targeted guidance and want to avoid shifting through irrelevant subject matter.
Video Databases: A curated collection of streaming video databases.
eBook Databases: An excellent starting point for research overview. These are full-text books accessible online (distinct from your course textbooks).
Recommendation: The EBSCO eBook collection is particularly useful for beginning a new research topic.
3. Instructional Resources & Downloadable Handouts
The library provides in-house, CSU Global-specific training materials to help you build your research skills.
How-to Videos
Located under dedicated tabs, these locally produced videos walk you through specific CSU Global systems and academic skills:
Advanced searching techniques
Using business databases
Navigating APA citations
Library Handouts
Downloadable and printable quick-reference sheets covering essential academic tasks, including:
APA references and in-text citations (includes a short guide answering the most common formatting questions)
Boolean advanced search terms
Google search terms
4. Personalized Support
Librarian Research Sessions
If the website FAQs and guides do not answer your questions, you can request a one-on-one research session with a librarian.
Process: Complete the appointment form on the website.
Requirement: You must use your official CSU Global email address on the form. A librarian will contact you via email to schedule the session.
The Writing Center
Accessible via the library website, the Writing Center helps students refine their written work.
Services: Schedule one-on-one sessions for direct feedback on your writing.
Resources Available: Document templates, writing style guides, and APA citation assistance.
Direct Support
Contact Info: Direct contact details for library staff are posted on the site.
5. Additional Services & External Links
Interlibrary Loan (ILL): If you need research materials outside of the CSU Global catalog, you can request them through ILL. This service is free of charge, but delivery typically takes 3 to 5 days.
Research Guides: Curated guides tailored to specific subjects and individual CSU Global courses, aligning resources directly with your assignments.
Need Help? If you have any questions or require assistance navigating these resources, please reach out directly to the library staff or your Student Success Counselor.