Smith Library Center

Research & Instruction Services

Librarians provide research consultations to students as well as an instruction program focused on using library resources & technologies.

Research Help  

Request a Research Appointment for in-depth and personalized assistance with a librarian. A librarian will email you within 24 hours to schedule a consultation. We can meet you in our office or via Google Meet.

Ask a Librarian.This online FAQ may have the answer you’re looking for! 

Drop-in research assistance can be requested at the InfoDesk on the first floor of the library. You may also contact a librarian directly.

The Research & Instruction Services (RAIS) team:

Katherine Hooker
Senior Research and Instruction Librarian

hookerk@southwestern.edu
(512) 863-1024  |  SLC 103C

Emily Thorpe
Instruction and Student Success Librarian

thorpe1@southwestern.edu
(512) 863-1320  |  SLC 103B

Vicki Winstead
Research and Instruction STEM Librarian

winsteadv@southwestern.edu
(512) 863-1557 | SLC 103D

Online Research Guides  

Our online Research Guides contain search tips, database help, information on citing sources, and more.  A Subject Guide has been developed for each academic discipline.

Research Instruction Sessions (Faculty)  

Whether you want an instructional session focused on the use of library resources or on learning with technology, librarians can customize library literacy that meets your goals. Sessions range from general to specific and can be scheduled for an entire class period, or some topics can be covered in 30-minute mini-workshops.

We can also prepare an online Research Guide tailored to your class assignment. 

Schedule an Instruction Session online. For more information please contact Katherine Hooker, Senior Research and Instruction Librarian, at hookerk@southwestern.edu