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SMSU URC Library Research Award

In conjunction with the University’s Undergraduate Research Conference, the SMSU Library sponsors a Library Research Award.  The winner of the award demonstrates high quality use of library resources, articulates their research experience, and conducts a quality presentation. Winners earns an award of $350 on their student account. Please note if you are part of a group research project, the group must work collaboratively on the following as all members of the group will split the award.

If you would like to be included in the judging for these awards, you must submit the following:

  1. Your abstract
  2. A bibliography of all works cited and all works consulted
  3. A 300-500 word reflective essay describing your research process

Essay Requirements

The reflection essay must address at least half of the following questions. You can address more than these, but at least half of these questions must be answered in your essay.

  • What library search tools/databases did you use and why?
  • What search terms were effective?
  • What did you learn about finding information on your topic or in your discipline? Was it necessary to move outside your discipline to find sufficient sources?
  • Did you consult with a librarian?
  • Did interaction with your faculty supervisor influence your research?
  • What did you learn about your own research process and style?
  • What would you change about your process if you were starting your research today?
  • How did this project contribute to your growth as a researcher?

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be judged on how well they demonstrate the following:

  1. Completion of submission requirements (abstract, bibliography, reflection)
  2. Sophistication, originality, and/or depth or breadth in the use of research resources (e.g., printed resources, databases, primary sources, media sources, etc.)
  3. Evidence of their research process and personal learning as described in the reflective essay
  4. Reviewers reserve the right to ask follow-up questions or address concerns regarding the reflective essay
  5. Overall presentation
  6. Rubric used for evaluating presentations

Submission Details

  • Due Date: Submit by November 13, 2024 at 11:59pm (No later)
  • Submission Instructions: Submit materials for this award along with your abstract on the Abstract Submission Form

Based on the Charlene Conrad Liebau Library Prize for Undergraduate Research award process at UC Berkeley

For more information regarding the SMSU URC Library Research Award, contact:

Pam Gladis
Professor of Library
McFarland Library, BA512
Ph: (507) 537-6813
Email: pam.gladis@smsu.edu

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