Literary Arts

Our library is here for you but the way we do things has changed for the duration of the pandemic.

For up to date info on studying in the library or obtaining materials, please see our blog.

Just remember: I am still available to help you with your research needs and library questions, big or small. Please see my contact information and hours of availability in the box on this page. I can help you via email, or you are welcome to use my calendar to set up a Zoom or Chat meeting.

Welcome to the research guide for Literary Arts at Brown University. This guide will help you to get started in your research but you are always welcome to contact me, whether it's to set up a research consultation appointment or just to answer a quick question. My appointment calendar can be found in the Your Librarian box on this page.

Are you new to humanities or college level research? You might like to take a look at our guide below.

The guide has been newly updated to address some issues regarding accessing library resources from off-campus during the COVID-19 situation. Many of your questions will be answered here.

Unknown artist. O! Thou Art Excellent as Fair. Broadside, ca. 1870-1899. Harris Collection.

It can be hard sometimes to know whether a source is trustworthy or not. One quick method is the following:

Try asking yourself the following questions:

1. Currency: How up to date is the information in this site?
2. Relevance: How relevant is the information for your needs? Is it an appropriate level (not too elementary or too advanced)?
3. Authority: Who is responsible for the information in this source? What are their credentials?
4. Accuracy: Does the source provide evidence to support the information? Can it be found elsewhere?
5. Purpose: What is the purpose? Is it to teach, sell, persuade?

Of course, Karen can also help you determine the validity of any resource you might be unsure about.

The above test was developed by librarian Sarah Blakeslee and her team at California State University, Chico.