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.

Last updated: 03/04/2019

Key Resources
Books
Explore

Library search tools

Library search

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

Library search overview

Using Library search to link to full text journal articles

Library search guide

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Video tutorials

RCN Library and Archive website overview

Literature searching video tutorials

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

These books include chapters about literature searching and using libraries.

Aveyard H, Sharp P and Woolliams M (2015) A beginner’s guide to critical thinking and writing in health and social care (2nd edition), Maidenhead: Open University Press.

Boyd C (2014) Study skills for nurses, Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Cottrell S (2013) The study skills handbook (4th edition), Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

Borrow from RCN Library services

Northrop M (2015) Studying for a foundation degree in health, London: Routledge.

Pears (2016) Cite them right: the essential referencing guide.

Pears R (2016) Cite them right: the essential referencing guide (10th edition), Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

Borrow from RCN Library services

Sivitar B (2013) The student nurse handbook: a survival guide.

Siviter B (2013) The student nurse handbook: a survival guide, Edinburgh: Bailliere Tindall.

Book subject searches

Use this link to see details of books the RCN libraries hold on the topic.

Study skills

Accessing eBooks

Accessibility resources

MyStudyBar

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.

Referencing

Use the referencing guidelines from the organisation that you are writing for. If you are studying, use your university’s referencing guidelines. Each university and organisation uses a unique referencing style, even if it is based on Harvard.

Using the referencing tool on Library search