From Questions to Knowledge: How Research Shapes Our World

Research isn’t just for scholars:  it’s a tool that helps everyone make better-informed decisions.  Research helps us find answers we’re looking for, whether it’s looking up reviews on items we plan to purchase, guides for how to fix or troubleshoot something, or even information related to planning a vacation.  Research also generates advancements in business, medicine, and technology, which benefits us all.  There is so much information out there, and learning how to find reliable sources has become more important than ever.  Many of these resources can be found at your library.

Here at Leonard Lief Library, students, faculty, and researchers can get access to a vast array of scholarly resources including books, eBooks, journals, and databases.  One of the best resources the Library offers is its dedicated librarians, ready to help patrons identify credible sources for their research.  Developing research skills is important because it fosters critical thinking.  Learning to ask the right questions also plays a key role, and librarians can assist patrons with developing insightful inquiries that lead to meaningful answers.  Through exposure to multiple sources, one can learn to evaluate and integrate information for a better understanding of their chosen topic.

Libraries are like a lighthouse, helping one navigate through vast waves of information to find reliable resources.  A shining beacon against the fog of misinformation, libraries help democratize knowledge and bridge the gap between the needs of academics and everyday people.  Overall, the ability to conduct effective research is a valuable skill both academically and in our everyday life.

Carlos Ruiz