About
KU Libraries has access to over 4 million books and more than 400 databases, so finding sources can take some practice. Below are some tips to make your searches easier as well as links to citation information, KU Libraries' "Ask a Librarian" instant messenger, and KU LIbraries' locations and hours.
General Library Search Tips
- Develop a list of keywords: Brainstorm a list of synonyms (words that mean the same or similar thing) and related words to expand your search.
- Use double quotes: When searching with phrases (two or more words), be sure to join them together by using double quotation marks.
- For example: “United States” or “canis lupus familiaris”
- Use truncation: Truncation allows you to search for a root word and all of its various endings.
- When using the search bar on the KU Libraries homepage or searching in library databases for articles, be sure to use a * to indicate the search should accept any letters that follow.
- For example: a search for televis* Would retrieve records with the words television, televisions, televise, televised, televising, televisual, etc.
- When using the search bar on the KU Libraries homepage or searching in library databases for articles, be sure to use a * to indicate the search should accept any letters that follow.
- Use AND/OR/NOT: Boolean keyword searches link multiple search terms and return more efficient search results.
- For example: “United States” AND televis*
Citing Sources
Click on these links for writing help and for information on citing sources.
- Citing in MLA formatClick on these links for information on citing the sources of your research in MLA or APA format. Click on the KU writing center logo below to go the KU Writing Center's homepage.
- Citing in APA formatFind out more about how to use APA citation and how to write in APA style by following this link.
- KU Writing CenterGet help with brainstorming, researching, writing, organizing, and refining your writing at the KU Writing Center.
Research Help
We can help with your research questions -- contact us by chat, phone, email, text or at a Research Help desk.
