How do I get research help at the OTC Library?

We can help you with library research! The OTC library offers in-person and virtual one-on-one research assistance to students, faculty, and staff. In-person appointments are held in the OTC library on the Springfield campus, and virtual meetings are held via Microsoft Teams.

Fill out our form to request a One-on-One Research Help appointment with a library staff member.

Appointments must be made a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the earliest time and date requested in order to allow for scheduling.
Contact libraryref@otc.edu if you have any questions.

What will library staff help me with during my appointment?

During a research consultation, library staff will:

  • Demonstrate how to access physical and digital OTC library resources
  • Demonstrate how to recognize different types of resources
  • Demonstrate how to use special features built into databases
  • Demonstrate how to use the OTC library catalog and MOBIUS catalog
  • Refer you to the appropriate departments for additional academic help and services

Is there anything the library staff can't do for me?

During a research consultation, library staff will not:

  • Conduct research for you
  • Complete any part of the assignment for you
  • Write any part of a research paper or other kind of assignment
  • Provide in-depth feedback on grammatical or mechanical aspects of your writing

Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

It is not necessary to bring anything to your research consultation, however, it is advisable to bring the following:

  • Information about your assignment or research project, including instructions and/or a rubric if applicable
  • A method for taking notes

What if I am late or I need to reschedule?

Appointments that do not arrive within 15 minutes of the start time of the scheduled appointment will be considered no-shows and the appointment will be canceled. If you will not be able to arrive at your original start time and you would like to keep your appointment, contact the library as soon as possible before the appointment to check if the appointment can be delayed. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact the library before the start of your appointment.

There is no penalty for canceling or rescheduling an appointment. We understand that there are many life circumstances and that appointments need to be rescheduled. The library is committed to supporting students as best as possible, however, rescheduling is contingent on library staffing.

New to library research? 
Check out our quick videos!

One-on-One Research Help at OTC’s Hamra Library

Appointments are available in-person in the Hamra Library (IC100, Springfield Campus) or online using Microsoft Teams. Please fill out this form to request a One-on-One appointment with library staff. Questions can be sent to libraryref@otc.edu.