When starting to conduct research, there are numerous options, from different sources, and in a variety of formats (print or online). Research guides were created by the librarians at the Gutman Library so that you can get connected to the most appropriate resources provided by the Library, given your area of study or research assignment.

Know What You Want?

To gain access to a library database of article references or full-text sources, go to the database A-Z list.

If you want a specific journal article (you have a citation for an article, i.e., journal name, volume and year), use the Journal List.

If you want to see if the Library owns a specific book, search the Library Catalog.

Not Sure Where to Go?

Find your area of study or subject area of research on the the Research Guides Landing Page.

Librarians are here for you! Contact a librarian who can help you get started on research.

Phone the Reference Desk. 215.951.2848

For full-text articles available freely to university students and faculty, the library databases are the best place to start. Use the Research Guides Landing Page to find databases in a specific subject.

The search results page on these databases will provide either links to the article (i.e., a .PDF document or HTML link), or you will see an icon that will check for full-text availability in other databases. Often, the icon will look like this:

If you click an icon like this one, you will be brought to a page which will either link you to the article in a different database, direct you to a print copy of the article (located in the library), or will indicate that a copy is not available at the library, and to try interlibrary loan.

If an article is not available in the database you are using, or if you have a citation (a specific article title from a specific issue of a journal) and would like to find the full text, you must look in the following locations:

To access library databases, you must have a Philadelphia University network account. When you are not on campus, you provide your university id and password on an intermediary page, prior to connecting to the database or journal. After this login is completed, you will have full access to the resource.

I Can't Connect

If you have problems accessing a library database from off-campus, contact the Office of Information Resources Technology Help Desk:

Phone. 215.951.4OIT

Technology support (university computer support, university network accounts, software support, virus protection , and connecting to the university's wireless network) is handled by the Office of Information Resources (OIR).

If you want to know about policies regarding access to the library building and resources (as an alumni or student at another institution), circulation policies, how to obtain a library card, accessing an item a professor has placed on reserve, study rooms, as well as printing and photocopying in the library, you can start by visiting theCirculation and Reserve Services page. If you prefer, you may also contact the public services department at:

Phone. 215.951.2840

If you want to obtain access to an item in the library's special collections, contact the library's head of special collections Stan Gorski.

The process of research and the process of writing are interconnected. For comprehensive writing help (understanding an assignment, organizing ideas, generating a thesis, and how to document and use sources, the university has a Learning and Advising Center.

To Contact the Center by Phone to Make an Advising Appointment. 215.951.2799

Please contact us...we will be happy to assist you!

Phone. 215.951.2840