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Getting Started in MTC Library

A guide for students at Midlands Technical College Library

Introduction

Research can feel like a scavenger hunt, but we’ve got all the tools you need to track down the perfect sources for your assignments. Whether you’re looking for books, peer-reviewed journal articles, or credible websites, this guide will help you navigate the process step by step.

Get Started with OneSearch

What is OneSearch?

OneSearch is a search tool available on MTC Library's homepage, designed to explore various resources including books, ebooks, videos, and articles. It operates primarily by searching for keywords and allows users to refine their searches using specific limiters.

Why is it important?

OneSearch serves as a centralized location to access diverse scholarly materials in a user-friendly interface. It enables users to search many different resources at once, saving time and effort.


Next Step: Keeping Track of Your Sources

When conducting research, it’s not enough to just find the right sources—you also need to ensure you can revisit them later. That’s where permalinks come in.

What is a Permalink?

A permalink, also known as a persistent URL, is a unique and permanent web address that links directly to a specific online resource, such as an article, ebook, or database entry. Permalinks serve as stable and reliable ways to access scholarly materials and resources.

Why Is This Important?

  • Copying the browser URL from a library database won’t reliably lead back to the resource later. Permalinks guarantee persistent access to scholarly content, even if the original URL changes.
  • Permalinks allow you to provide accurate references in academic work, linking directly to the resource you used.

 

 


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