Research Consultations  

If you need help getting started with your research or using the library, schedule an appointment today. Appointments last approximately half an hour, but can run longer depending on the complexity of the question.

The Research Consultation Service is designed to allow UNA students, faculty, and staff who have questions that are too involved to be adequately answered through a brief encounter at the Reference Desk or by phone to consult one-on-one with a librarian.  This service provides in-depth assistance in library research including identifying and locating the most useful sources of information for your paper, project, or assignment; effective web search strategies; and evaluating information sources.  Among the things a librarian can assist with are:

• Suggesting the most appropriate databases and other resources for your subject area
• Locating periodical articles and books on your topic
• Searching the web to find reliable sources
• Locating primary documents
• Locating and using government documents and statistical resources
• Explaining how to use Interlibrary Loan to request materials from other libraries 

Please note: Librarians will not do the research for you, but we will assist you in the process of locating information and using library resources.  For assistance with the writing process and the mechanics of writing a paper visit the Center for Writing Excellence.

Scheduling a research consultation is done through our online scheduling system.  First-time users must register for an account. We share a registration database with the Center for Writing Excellence. Users with a current account with the CWE may log-in to the research consultation system using their CWE user name and password.

Schedule an Appointment

Who can use the Research Consultation Service?

The Research Consultation Service is open to UNA students, faculty and staff. For community users and others please call or visit the Reference Desk. (256-765-4469)

How does the Research Consultation Service work?

To use this service you should have a research paper or other assignment that requires research. You will need to have the details of the assignment (due dates, topic, etc.) before scheduling your appointment. Scheduling an appointment gives you an opportunity to discuss your topic with a librarian who will guide you through the process of finding information and offer advice on helpful resources. We cannot do the research for you, but will assist you in the process of locating information and using library resources.

When is the Research Consultation Service available?

Appointments are usually made during normal business hours (M-F, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) when school is in session. Please remember that many questions may be answered quickly and effectively at the Reference Desk. You may call or visit the Reference Desk seven days a week during normal reference hours without making an appointment.  You may also use the "Ask a Librarian" form to ask simple factual questions that might be asked at the Reference Desk.

Where do the Research Consultations take place?

Research consultations usually take place in Collier Library. Consultations may also occur via email, phone, or in your office (for UNA faculty and staff).

 How long will the consultation last?

Appointments usually last a half hour, but can run longer depending on the complexity of the question.

Can groups schedule a Research Consultation?

Yes! If you are working on a group research project your group may set up an appointment to meet with a librarian to discuss research strategies.

Can Distance Learning students schedule a Research Consultation?

Yes! Distance Learning students are encouraged to use the Research Consultation Service. These consultations can occur in a number of ways including via email, phone, or in some cases, within your online course using the private chat or discussion feature.