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Smiley Memorial Library Orientation

Welcome to Smiley Memorial Library, the academic library serving Central Methodist University's students, faculty, and staff! This guide is designed to orientate you to the Library and the services we offer.

Comparing Scholarly and Popular Sources

Comparison infographic. See "Text-Only" tab of content box for description.

Comparing Information Sources 

 

Popular Articles Scholarly Articles
Author(s) Staff, journalists, or freelance writers (sometimes unattributed) Scholars, researchers, or experts in a field. Author's affiliations are listed
Audience General public or those without specialized knowledge or education 

Researchers, students, academics, and professionals in the field

Review Typically evaluated by editors on staff Often undergo peer review by experts in the subject field
Language Easy-to-understand untechnical language  Academic and/or technical language
Citation Rarely include bibliography/references in formal styles Includes a formal bibliography or reference list
Content Generally covers public interest, entertainment, or current events topics Includes original research, new theories, and/or other knowledge to share with the academic world
Formats Newspapers, magazines, websites, blogs, and etcetera  Journals and books by academic publishers

 

Smiley Memorial Library

Central Methodist University
411 Central Methodist Square
Fayette, MO 65248

660-248-6271
library@centralmethodist.edu