Search support - Courses
The ZHAW University Library offers search support by providing materials, discipline-specific information, consulting and courses.
“The library team is always helpful and offers great support whenever I have any queries on literature or searches.”
Verena Berger, Research Associate
“The University Library holding is up-to-date, digital and comprehensive. This means that I have access to virtually all research findings in my field.”
Markus Hackenfort, Lecturer
“The Library literature search options are a great help for my teaching.”
Alexander Mertes, Research Associate
Search tips
Here you will find general advice on search strategies. If you are looking for specific tips on databases related to your area, please consult the discipline-specific information.
Structuring a search
A well-structured search basically consists of preparation, execution and repetition.
The preparation phase, however, is particularly important. By preparing a search well, you should be able to avoid frustration in the execution phase and obtain the results you require faster.
Since a search is an iterative process, the terms you discover become increasingly relevant and lead to more and more successful results.
Tips for efficient research
Formulate your research question(s) in writing.
This will help to ensure that you don’t get bogged down during your search.
Make sure you know what information you require.
What information do you require from which time period?
What publication types could be useful and where can you find them?
Get an overview by conducting an initial search.
Find basic information and get to know the specialist terminology.
Search using the snowball method or adopt a systematic approach.
Analyse your topic and compile a list of search terms.
Make your search query more precise with the help of different search techniques.
Document your search.
Find more input on search in our blog post “Recherchestrategien für die Projekt-, Semester-, Seminar- oder Abschlussarbeit” (in German).
In-depth information and helpful tools
Discipline-specific information
Here, you will find an overview of relevant discipline-specific databases, journals, reference works and further literature.
Reference service
- You need literature on a specific topic and have the feeling that you could improve your search strategies.
- You have a project topic and don’t know where to begin your search.
- You’ve discovered a database which would be ideal for your research topic but you’re not sure how to find your way.
Reference service without appointment in the library
Consulting hours
- Winterthur: Mon to Fri 12 p.m.–2 p.m. and 4.30 p.m.–6.30 p.m.
(1st mezzanine level in the library) - Zurich: Thu, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Please note the special consulting hours.
Reference service by appointment (virtual or on site)
Form to request reference service
Consulting hours
- Winterthur: Mon to Fri 12 p.m.–6.30 p.m.
- Zurich: Mon to Fri 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Wädenswil: Mon to Fri 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Please note the special consulting hours.
Special consulting hours in the University Library
| All locations | Wednesday, 1 May 2024 | Labour Day | no reference service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winterthur | Wednesday, 8 May 2024 | Wednesday before Ascension Day | no reference service from 4 p.m. |
| All locations | Thursday, 9 May 2024 | Ascension Day | no reference service |
| Winterthur | Friday, 10 May 2024 | Friday after Ascension Day | no reference service |
| All locations | Monday, 20 May 2024 | Pentecost | no reference service |
| Winterthur | Monday, 3 June 2024 to Friday 13 September 2024 | Summer consulting hours | reference service Mon to Fri 12 p.m.–2 p.m. |
Please also note the library opening hours.
Courses
In addition to the introductory sessions and more detailed training courses on information competence which students attend as part of their studies, the University Library offers various optional courses.
University Library course programme (ZHAW login required - in German)