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Library Guide: New Swarthmore Students

First-Semester Checklist

red alarm clock icon   AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

  • Set up your laptop to print to the library printers  (Printing is free!)
     
  • ​Find textbooks on reserve for your classes
     
    • The Libraries provide access to many textbooks and assigned class readings.
      • Sometimes you'll find online access through Tripod.
      • Other times, there's a physical copy set aside for your class at one of the libraries (McCabe, Cornell, and Underhill).
      • You can borrow print reserve books for a few hours at a time.
         
    • How to find course books:
      • If you know the title of the book, you can search for it in Tripod. This will tell you which library has the book and whether it's available now.
      • You can also use the Course Reserves search in Tripod to explore books on reserve by academic department, program, or course. Example: Environmental Studies


blue book icon   BEFORE YOUR FIRST RESEARCH PAPER

  • Get to know your subject librarian
     
    • There's a librarian for every subject taught at Swarthmore.
    • Your subject librarian can help you navigate textbooks, find resources, and learn how to become a better researcher. 
    • Subject librarians work with students all the time, so don't be shy! If you're not sure who to contact, you can reach the team at librarian@swarthmore.edu and one of us will write back.

  • Meet a RIA (a peer Research & Information Associate).
     
  • Look at TriCo Libraries Research Guides.
    ​
    • Research Guides are created by librarians to help you identify resources and get started with papers and projects.
    • Guides highlight research tools (databases, search engines) for different subject areas and courses
       

green laptop icon   WHILE WORKING ON AN ASSIGNMENT

orange leaf icon BEFORE FALL BREAK