High school students in grade 11 and up

The course is an introduction to using academic libraries and their digital and printed collection, as well as the catalogs, which are available freely online plus databases for literature searches. The concept is interactive and requires committed participant cooperation.

We will deal with the following questions in the training room:

• How does the FU's library system work and how do I use the Philological Library?
• What is a classification system and how does it help when searching for literature?
• How does a modern library catalog work?
• Tips and tricks for the search:

1. How do I formulate a theme-based search request?
2. When do I use one special type of media?
3. Databases ‑ for experts only?
4. According to what criteria do I rate the websites that have been found?
5. Google Books and Google Scholar – ideal for getting started

• How can I find literature in all of Berlin's libraries conveniently at home?

• How can I use Google in a more effective way for my search?

Participants will work on the answers to these questions themselves in groups at PCs and subsequently present them in a plenum. Our concept is not based on a specific subject, instead it is aimed at familiarizing students with initial search strategies and search criteria.

Since Google is usually the first starting point for a search, useful advice will be offered on this topic.

The entire event lasts about 2 hours and is aimed at courses in senior classes. A maximum of 20 students can participate in the course. The appointments are arranged with the students.

If there is interest, the content can also be offered in advanced training for teachers as disseminators – the catalogs used are all freely available online and can also be retrieved later in school.

Library card for students

Students that have attained full age receive their own library card at the circulation desk by presenting their personal identification, insofar as they can verify residence in Berlin or Brandenburg. Underage students age 16 and up require an additional, signed declaration of consent from a parent or legal guardian as well as their obligation to be liable for any damages and for settling any accrued fees and charges. The personal identification of the parent or legal guardian must be presented to verify the signature.

Students under 16 years of age do not receive a library card.

Tutorials

Research assistance for papers and final year presentations:
Tutorial information competence for students and new students (in German)

Students explain the library to students

"go search!" - first steps at the Philological Library. (in German)