One to One
A program designed to provide individual assistance to doctoral students (and master’s students engaged in thesis research) in utilizing library resources at Sam Houston State University. Click here for the application form in PDF or HTML.
Am I Eligible?
If you are a doctoral student at Sam Houston State University, or a master’s student currently engaged in thesis research, you are eligible! Also, SHSU faculty members who are engaged in dissertation research at another university are eligible.
How Can One to One Help Me ?
Even for an experienced researcher, library research can be frustrating. The organization of information in academic libraries is complex and necessitates a systematic and sophisticated approach in order to achieve a thorough exploration of all available resources. The Online Catalog, web-based databases, indexing and abstracting services, government documents, microform collections, and interlibrary loan are examples of resources which should be explored and require specialized knowledge and skills for maximum utilization.
A sound, logical strategy “translating” needs for research into “language” of the library’s systems can be provided best by professionals possessing specialized knowledge of information systems. Just as a computer programmer unlocks the information in a computer database by understanding the computer program, the librarian unlocks the resources of the library by understanding how information is organized.
What Can I Expect from One to One?
You will be assigned a librarian who will work “one to one” with you for the duration of your doctoral program or thesis research. “Your” librarian will be available by appointment to assist you in conducting library research by helping you formulate logical search strategies, determine the appropriate resources within our library or in other libraries, and identify useful services.
What Will it Cost Me?
This program is free. In fact, it should save you hours of unproductive research.
How Do I Apply?
To take advantage of this program simply print and complete the application form and mail it to the Library. Or, if you wish, you may bring it to the Reference Desk of the Newton Gresham Library, 2nd floor. Be sure to have your faculty advisor (or thesis chairman) fill out the relevant part of the form and sign it.
Once a “One to One” librarian is assigned, you will be contacted for an interview. This initial session will include a personal orientation of the Library and a thorough discussion of your studies and research needs. After this meeting, you may initiate a “One to One” conference by appointment as needed.
Click here for the application form in PDF or HTML.