Getting started using the Library
We offer online information resources, four libraries, and library staff who can provide you with help. Use this guide for an introduction to our resources and services. Discover how you can find information and get the most from RCN library and archive services.
Library search tools
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An easy to use search for journal articles, books and eBooks. Use the 'I'm looking for' box in the centre of the screen.
Open Library search
Video tutorials
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You can find our full range of video tutorials here. These offer guidance on using our website and searching for online journals.
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Books
Aveyard H, Sharp, P and Woolliams M (2015) A beginner’s guide to critical thinking and writing in health and social care. 2nd edn. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Boyd C and Murray B (2014) Study skills for nurses. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.
Cottrell S (2019) The study skills handbook. 5th edn. London: Macmillan International Higher Education.
Northrop M (2015) Studying for a foundation degree in health. London: Routledge.
Pears R and Shields G (2019) Cite them right: the essential referencing guide. 11th edn. London: Red Globe Press.
Book subject searches
Journal articles
Evaluating information
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This online resource explains the sections commonly used in research articles. Understanding how research articles are organised can make reading and evaluating them easier.
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A tool designed to help people understand and review health research and to decide how dependable and relevant it is. The tool will guide you through a series of questions which will help you to evaluate a research article.
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Study skills
RCN: study skills reading list -
This reading list covers a range of study skills. Some resources may only be available to RCN members and RCN programme participants.
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Referencing
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If you are looking for an example of Harvard referencing you may find our guidelines a useful example. You should always follow the referencing guidelines of your university or institution however. They will be different to these guidelines as there are many versions of Harvard referencing.
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Pears R and Shields G (2019) Cite them right: the essential referencing guide. 11th edn. London: Macmillan.
Accessibility resources
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MyStudyBar is free assistive software to help learners with literacy-related difficulties including dyslexia. It can offer potential benefits to all learners. It includes mind mapping software, a text to audio reader and screen colour overlays. My StudyBar only works on Windows PCs. It is free to download and can be used from a USB stick.
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Gribben M (2012) The study skills toolkit for students with dyslexia. London: SAGE.
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Alan Chalkley
Editor of this guide
RCN Library and Archive Service
Upcoming events relating to this subject guide
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30 May 2022
Online
Know How to Evaluate Healthcare Information
This workshop is led by RCN librarians, who will help you develop the important skill of evaluating healthcare information.
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06 Jun 2022
Online
Know How to Search CINAHL
Learn about using the CINAHL database for literature searches at this event for RCN members.
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13 Jun 2022
Online
Get online and get ahead with RCN Libraries
Kick start the new academic year and find out how the RCN Library and Archive Service can assist you with your studies.
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21 Jun 2022
Online
Know How to Manage References with Zotero
Learn how to use Zotero reference management software at this event for RCN members
Page last updated - 12/05/2022
