University Libraries has expanded its successful  Peer Research Consultant (PRC) service to a third location at the Bio-Medical Library.

The PRC service — now in its seventh year — offers walk-in and appointment-based research support. The service’s goal is to connect students who need help getting started on their research with student employees trained in library research techniques.

“I’m excited to welcome the PRCs to Bio-Med!,” says Emily Reimer of the Bio-Medical Library. “We’ll offer evening hours, which will be particularly great for the undergrads who like to study at our library,” she says.

How PRCs help

The PRCs help students find scholarly articles, narrow down paper topics, navigate the Libraries’ website and resources, and create thesis statements or research questions.

“The PRCs who are working at the Bio-Medical Library have also received training in health sciences resources, so they’ll be in the know and able to help with PubMed, Micromedex, CINAHL and other specialized databases,” says Reimer.

A natural fit

Andrew Palahniuk and Kate Peterson of the University Libraries lead the PRCs service, and are thrilled by the opportunities presented with a new service location at the Bio-Medical Library.

“Upon hearing the news, the PRCs said the Bio-Med Library is their favorite place to study — so this is a natural fit!,” says Palahniuk. “Kate and I share Emily’s excitement about extending the PRCs service to the Bio-Medical Library. The impact of this service on students has been very positive.”

PRCs reduce stress of research

Students working with the PRCs have shared that the service has helped them organize their work, narrow research questions, find credible resources, and reduce stress.

Here’s a snapshot of what student participants are saying about the PRCs.

“Akshina was very friendly and helpful with both projects I needed help with. She’s very knowledgeable about research methods and the U’s resources. Would recommend!”

“Emily was so helpful and acted as a really great sounding board to help me narrow in on my research question! I’m so happy I met with her!”

“I just really needed to get my thoughts organized. Not having my articles organized was really stressing me out.  After Mariah told me about Mendeley, I went home and downloaded it. The ability to organize my research, highlight, and take notes right on the article really helped lower my anxiety as I was able to organize my thoughts into writing my research paper.”