Library Research Prize Essay Tips

Your essay should be 500-700 words describing your research strategies and use of library tools and resources. The essay is the most important piece of your submission. While the content and quality of your final project are important, the selection committee is more interested in the investigative journey you undertook to create that project and how your research skills and understanding/use of library services, resources, and collections have improved as a result.

In addition to reviewing the selection criteria, it may be helpful to keep in mind the following questions as you reflect on your library research experience.

• Were you surprised by any part of the research process or by any library resources?
• What did you discover about the tools and techniques for research in the library that you did not know before you began your project?
• What did you learn about the process of finding and evaluating information on your topic - or in your discipline?
• What discoveries did you make in the library by serendipity? And which through carefully planned search strategies?
• Did you keep a journal or log of your research?
• What lessons about the research process did you take away from the experience?

Note: These tips are offered to guide, not inhibit, your reflection. You are not required to address them specifically in your essay.