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10 Places to Research Papers

The Internet is a great place to research papers, but not the only place.

By , About.com Guide

Chances are pretty good that at least one of your assignments this semester will involve writing a research paper. It's easy to conduct research on the Internet, but don't let that ease keep you from using the nine other sources we've listed for you here. There's nothing like a direct quote from a subject matter expert. Surprise your teacher by using sources other students might not think of using.

Need help with writing in general:

1. The Internet

Writing a Personal Essay by Andrea Chu - Getty ImagesAndrea Chu - Getty Images

The Internet has changed everything about how we research papers. From your own home, or your cubicle at the library, you can learn almost anything. Try different keywords when Googling or using other search engines, and remember to check out podcasts, forums, even YouTube. It's important to keep a few things in mind:

  • Not everything you read on the Internet is accurate or true.
  • Many pages are not dated. You may have to dig deeper to learn how current the info is.
  • Wikipedia is not always reliable information. Use it, but double check your information.
  • Don't rely solely on the Internet. The information you learn using the other nine options here might surprise you.

Here are just a few websites to get you started:

2. Libraries

New York Public Library by victoriapeckham / Flickrby victoriapeckham / Flickr

Libraries are still one of the very best places to learn about anything. Librarians are always on staff to help you find the information you need, and many have specialties that may relate to your topic. Ask. Get a tour of the reference section. If you need help using the library catalog, ask. Most are now online.

See Grace Fleming's article: Using a Library

3. Books

Books by Faeryan / FlickrFaeryan / Flickr

Books are forever, or almost, and there are so many different kinds. Be sure to consider all of them:

Find books in your school library, county library, and bookstores of all kinds. Be sure to look on your own bookshelf at home, and don't be afraid to borrow from friends and relatives.

4. Newspapers

New York Times Newspaper by thms.nl / Flickrthms.nl / Flickr

Newspapers are the perfect source for current events and up-to-the minute news. Most libraries subscribe to all the top national papers, and many papers are available in online editions. Vintage newspapers can also be a wonderful source of history.

Check with the reference librarian in your favorite library.

5. Magazines

Magazine Stand by Spencer Platt / Getty ImagesSpencer Platt / Getty Images
Magazines are another source for both current and historic news. Magazine articles are generally more creative and reflective than newspaper articles, adding a dimension of emotion and/or opinion to your paper.

6. Documentaries and DVD's

DVD's by C. P. Storm / FlickrC. P. Storm / Flickr
Many fabulous documentaries are available on DVD from your bookstore, library, or video store. Visit the Documentaries site at About.com for lots of titles, ideas, and reviews. Customer reviews of many DVD's are also abundant on the Internet. Before you buy, check out what others think about a program.

7. Government Offices

City Hall by Spencer Platt / Getty ImagesSpencer Platt / Getty Images

Your local government offices can be a very useful source of historical data. Much of it is a matter of public record and available for the asking. Call ahead to make sure you'll be accommodated when you arrive.

8. Museums

The Getty Museum in CA by David McNews / Getty ImagesDavid McNews / Getty Images
If you live in or near a city, you've probably got access to at least one museum. Larger American cities, of course, are home to some of the most famous museums in the world. When you study abroad, museums are one of your most valuable stops.

Talk to a curator, take a tour, or at the very least, rent an audio tour. Most museums also have printed information you can take with you.

Visit museums respectfully, and remember that most do not allow cameras, food, or beverages.

9. Zoos, Parks, and Other Such Institutions

Panda at Taipei City Zoo by China / Stringer / Getty ImagesChina / Stringer / Getty Images

If you're lucky enough to be near an institution or organization designed for the study or preservation of something, and that something is the topic of your research paper, you've hit pay dirt. Zoos, marinas, conservation centers, hatcheries, historical societies, parks, all of these are valuable sources of information for you. Check an online directory or the Yellow Pages. There may be places you've never heard of.

10. Local Experts

Professional Certification by Steve Cole / Getty ImagesSteve Cole / Getty Images

Interviewing a local expert in your topic is one of the very best ways of getting both knowledge and interesting quotes. Call and ask for an interview. Explain your project so they understand what is expected. If they have time, most people are more than willing to help out a student.

Learn from Tony Rogers: The Basics of Conducting Interviews

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