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FYWB 1113: Critical Conversations Bodies & Desires (Benjamin S23)

Use this guide to learn more about the library and how to get started with research.

Stay in touch!

Steps in the Library Research Process

Things to think about when getting started with a research project or a critical conversation in your writing praxis:

  • Think of a topic or question that you're really curious about, something that really compels you. 

  • Write down some keywords and phrases that come to mind. You can use these to search. Be open to the possibility of new keywords, and try out different combinations!

  • Explore backgrounds and contexts. Reference sources can help you with concepts and terms, and they can also lead you to other relevant sources.

  • Search for books and articles on your topic. Carefully skim each source---including the synopsis, abstract, table of contents, and/or index--- to assess how relevant and useful it will be to you.  Put back books or articles that aren't useful.

  • Document and cite your sources as you go along - this will make the paper-writing process much easier!

Personal Librarians

Personal Librarians: By Department 

Erin Anthony Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Neuroscience and Behavior, Physical Education, Physics and Astronomy, and Psychology 
Jennie Correia Economics, Human Rights, Political Science, Sociology, and Urban Studies
Jenna Freedman Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies, Zines
Gina Levitan American Studies (with Vani Natarajan), Classics & Ancient Studies, Education, German, History, Medieval & Renaissance Studies, Philosophy, Religion, and Slavic Studies 
Vani Natarajan Africana Studies, American Studies (with Gina Levitan), Anthropology, Asian & Middle Eastern Cultures, Comparative Literature, English, French, Italian, Jewish Studies, and Spanish and Latin American Cultures 
Meredith Wisner Architecture, Art (studio), Art History, Dance, Film Studies, Music, and Theater

Personal Librarians for Incoming Students:

Incoming Students, last names A-C Jennie Correia
Incoming Students, last names D-I Gina Levitan
Incoming Students, last names J-N Erin Anthony
Incoming Students, last names O-S Meredith Wisner
Incoming Students, last names T-Z Vani Natarajan 

Sophomores/ Undeclared Returning Students

If you were assigned a PL last year, your personal librarian hasn’t changed! And all are welcome to continue reaching out to the librarian(s) they wish.