Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education (ACRL)

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Locating information requires a combination of inquiry, discovery, and serendipity. There is no one size fits all source to find the needed information. Information discovery is nonlinear and iterative, requiring the use of a broad range of information sources and flexibility to pursue alternate avenues as new understanding is developed.

• Select an appropriate search tool based on discipline and task at hand.
• Construct a search based on keywords and use basic search strategies.
• Condense or expand as necessary using search string and facets.
• Remain persistent, try a variety of searches, and keep asking questions.

Develop an effective research question and then identify keywords to begin the search process.

View this document which illustrates the cyclical nature of research and contains links to a variety of STLCC Libraries tools and resources.