Tarrant County College is committed to providing students a well-rounded education. A primary means of achieving this goal is by developing critical and analytical skills in doing academic research.

Whatever type of research you engage in, you will probably need to use a variety of resources. Making effective use of these resources can be a challenge. This online tutorial was created to assist you in becoming acquainted with the resources available to you.

You may want to start at the first question and browse the entire series in order to become familiar with all areas of the library. Or, you can choose one of the questions listed below to guide you in a specific research need.

Each page has a Contents list which will allow you to navigate through the information we've prepared, or you may click the word "Contents" to return to this introductory page. Additionally, you may jump directly to the Library Home Page at any time by clicking the TCC logo in the upper-left corner of each content page.

CONTENTS

Library Catalog
How do I use the Library Catalog?

Using Other Libraries
Can I use materials at any TCC campus?
Can I use facilities at other public and academic libraries?

Books vs. Internet
What's the difference between the information they present?

Databases vs. Internet
What's the difference between the information they present?

Scholarly Journals
How is a peer-reviewed journal different than a regular magazine?

Using the Databases
How do I find the articles I need?

Controversial Topics
What sources should I try first?

Literature Essays
Where should I go for Literary Criticism?

Citing Sources
How do I find MLA guidelines for my Works Cited page?

Internet Research
How can the library help me search the Web more effectively?