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Adams State University
Nielsen Library

First Year Seminar (FYS)

This guide supports both instructors and students in the First Year Seminar by offering essential resources, tools, and tips for navigating the library, finding credible sources, and building strong research skills.

How the Library Can Help

Starting college research can feel like a lot sometimes, but you don't have to figure it out on your own. The library is here to support you at every step, whether you're choosing a topic, finding credible sources, or just trying to find a book. Our librarians and student-staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to help. At the library, you'll also have access to academic databases, books, and helpful tools like research guides and tutorials. Plus, the library offers quiet study spaces, group study rooms, technology rentals, and workshops to support your learning throughout the semester. 

Here's how the library can help:

  • Get one-on-one help from a librarian with your research
  • Visit the reference desk for help finding sources, searching databases, or creating citations
  • Access scholarly articles, books, eBooks, and research databases for free
  • Use research guides and video tutorials anytime
  • Study in quiet areas or group spaces; borrow laptops or chargers
  • Attend events and workshops to hone your skills or even just have a good time

Resources:

Here's some resources that can help when starting your academic research journey: 

  • Links to the library liaison information 
  • The Nielsen Library Research Guides are a great starting point for exploring resources related to your topic.
  • This video on Searching vs Researching from McMaster University Library
  • SNHU Springshare Learning Lab Library - If you're looking for a more engaging way to learn, Southern New Hampshire University offers gamified tutorials where you can solve mysteries or try a virtual escape room—all while building your skills in library research, the research process, and information literacy. (Note: If you want to work through the full live badge experience, you are welcome to do so, but please DO NOT CLICK "Submit" at the end. SNHU badges can only be awarded to currently affiliated SNHU users.)
    • Expert Evaluator - Investigate conflicting information claims surrounding a small-town tragedy. Analyze a wide range of sources—from TikTok conspiracy theories to AI-generated images—to determine credibility and uncover the truth.
    • Research Expert 1 - As a rookie journalist, you're assigned to cover a recent train derailment and chemical spill. Your mission: identify the most reliable sources to report accurately on the developing story.
    • Research Expert 2 - Now a newly minted reporter, you deepen your investigation into the Christie Corporation, crafting a research strategy to uncover strong evidence for your case.
  • Infobase: Issues & Controversies - Searchable database providing multiple perspectives on many issues. Very useful for a general overview of a topic.
  • Infobase: Films on Demand - Audio/Video coverage of a wide range of academic topics. Also includes 7556 video results for Spanish language material. 
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