Postgraduate Library Guide

Postgraduate study can seem daunting, especially if you haven't done it for a while. But it doesn't have to be.
We've created this helpful guide to get you started.  Below you will find an overview of Library services for postgraduates, and tips to make the most out of the Library.

Sometimes getting started is the hardest part of any assignment-task-project.
To help you get started and keep moving, check out our Help Yourself Guide and Subject Guides.

With our online Help Yourself Guide you will learn to:

• Plan your research to make the most of your time and our resources.
• Sharpen your research skills to find the right resources for your topic.
• Evaluate what you find to make sure it meets your needs.

Our Subject Guides give you an overview of the best resources for your subject area. From education and nursing to business, we've got you covered.

Contact one of our librarians if you need further help.

Library databases

Give your research credibility - use high quality information from library databases.

• Search the A-Z list of databases by title or subject
• Subject Guides also lists key recommended databases for your subject area
• Learn how to search databases
• Set up Google Scholar to link to ACU resources.

Discover our collections

• Books and eBooks - print books available for loan; access eBooks online.
• Journal articles - limit to peer-reviewed to find articles by experts in the field.
• Newspaper articles - for a point in time viewpoint.
• Company and industry reports and company profiles.
• Standards - from Australia and overseas.
• Statistics - key Australian Statistical data.
• Theses - showcase extensive research by graduate research students.

With so much on offer, you're sure to find information for your research or study.

Find what you are looking for

If you can't find what you need we'll do our best to track it down for you.  Use our online forms to request: 

• Books, book chapters and journal articles from any of our campus libraries.
• Items not held at the Library (known as interlibrary loans).

Some conditions apply.  Make sure you review our interlibrary loan guidelines for more information.

As you progress with your studies, you'll come across many scholarly phrases you'll need to know.  We've put together guides on some of the key terms you might come across. 

• Grey literature.
• Literature reviews
• Peer-reviewed/scholarly sources.
• Primary and secondary sources.
• Systematic reviews.
• Evidence-based practice.

Acknowledging and referencing your sources is an important part of your research.

Different referencing styles are used throughout the University. It's important to know which style your School or Faculty requires for composing your bibliography or reference list.

Ask your Lecturer, Subject Coordinator or Research Supervisor if you are not sure what that style is, and access the Academic Skills site in LEO for more information.

Use EndNote or RefWorks to help manage and cite references and build your bibliography or reference lists.

Stay organised and manage your research using the following tools:

• Alerts - set up database alerts to stay up to date with research in your area.
• Research data management toolkit - create a data management plan for your research data.
• Statistical and data analysis tools NVivo and SPSS are available and supported by IT.
• Qualtrics - use your ACU username and password to access this survey tool.

We are here for you. Contact us online or in person for answers to your questions whatever they are:

• Chat to us 24/7 during semester.
• Email us any time we will respond the next working day.
• Check out the Library's website and Help Yourself Guide.
• Visit one of our six campus libraries if you live close by - opening hours vary.