How to Set Up Google Scholar with University of Minnesota Twin Cities Libraries for Full-Text Access

Google Scholar is an essential tool for academic research, providing access to a wide array of scholarly literature including journal articles, theses, conference papers, citations, and preprints. For students, faculty, and researchers at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, linking Google Scholar to the University Libraries ensures seamless access to full-text resources available through the institution. This guide explains how to set up Google Scholar with University of Minnesota Twin Cities Libraries and how to use it effectively to find library resources.

Why Connect Google Scholar to University Libraries?

By default, Google Scholar shows search results from a wide range of sources. While some articles are freely available, many require a subscription or purchase to access. The University of Minnesota Libraries provides licensed access to thousands of scholarly journals and databases. Linking Google Scholar to the University Libraries enables you to:

• Access full-text articles available through the University Libraries.

• Avoid paying for materials you already have access to through the University.

• Use library-specific tools like “FindIt@U of M Twin Cities” to quickly locate resources.

• Request unavailable materials via Interlibrary Loan.

This connection maximizes your research efficiency and ensures you are using credible, scholarly sources.

Step 1: Access Google Scholar via the University Libraries Website

To ensure seamless integration:

1. Visit the University of Minnesota Libraries homepage at lib.umn.edu.

2. Locate the Highly Used Databases section.

3. Select Google Scholar from the list.

Accessing Google Scholar through the library website automatically recognizes your institutional affiliation and reduces authentication issues when accessing full-text resources.

Step 2: Open Google Scholar Settings

Once Google Scholar is open:

1. Click the menu icon in the top-left corner of the Google Scholar page.

2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

This opens the configuration area where you can connect your account to the University Libraries and customize your search settings.

Step 3: Configure Library Links

Library links allow Google Scholar to display direct access options for resources available through University of Minnesota Twin Cities Libraries:

1. In the Settings menu, select Library Links.

2. In the search box, type University of Minnesota.

3. Check the box next to University of Minnesota Twin Cities - FindIt @U of Twin Cities.

4. Click Save to confirm your selection.

After completing this step, any search results that are available through the University Libraries will display a FindIt@U of Twin Cities link next to them. Clicking this link gives you direct access to full-text articles, PDFs, or other resources licensed by the University.

Step 4: Searching in Google Scholar

Once Google Scholar is set up with Library Links:

1. Enter your search keywords in the Google Scholar search bar.

2. Review the results. Articles that are available through the University Libraries will have a FindIt@U of Twin Cities link.

3. Click the link to access the full text through the University library system.

Tip: Always look for the FindIt link before considering paying for articles, as this often provides free access via your library subscription.

Step 5: Understanding Google Scholar Results

Google Scholar aggregates results from a variety of sources including:

• Academic publishers

• Professional societies

• Preprint repositories

• University repositories

• Patents and legal opinions

While it is a powerful tool, not all results are free or peer-reviewed. Use the following tips to assess the quality of sources:

• Check if the article is from a recognized journal or publisher.

• Review the number of citations as an indicator of influence.

• Use the University Libraries’ resources for additional validation.

Step 6: Accessing Full-Text Articles

When a FindIt@U of Twin Cities link is available:

1. Click the link.

2. You may be prompted to log in using your University credentials if not already signed in.

3. Access the full-text PDF or HTML version directly.

If the article is not available through the University Libraries, you can:

• Request it via Interlibrary Loan. This service allows you to borrow articles or books from partner libraries at no extra cost.

• Check alternative databases available through the University Libraries that may include the full text.

Step 7: Google Scholar vs. University Databases

While Google Scholar is useful for interdisciplinary searches, University Libraries provide high-quality, subject-specific databases that may not appear in Google Scholar. Some points to consider:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Databases like PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and JSTOR provide more complete coverage of specific disciplines.

• Advanced Search Features: University databases often offer better filtering options, allowing you to narrow searches by publication type, date, methodology, and more.

• Reliable Full Text Access: Licensed content ensures you have legal and uninterrupted access.

For serious research projects, it is recommended to use Google Scholar alongside the University’s databases to ensure both breadth and depth of sources.

Step 8: Google Scholar Features for University Researchers

a) Citation Tracking

Google Scholar allows you to:

• See how many times an article has been cited.

• Access citing articles to expand your research.

b) Saved Searches

• Create an account or sign in to Google Scholar.

• Save articles to your library for later reference.

c) Citation Export

• Use the quotation mark icon to generate citations in APA, MLA, or Chicago style.

• Export citations directly to reference managers like Zotero, EndNote, or Mendeley.

d) Alerts

• Set up alerts for keywords or topics to receive notifications of new publications in your field.

Step 9: Advanced Google Scholar Search

Google Scholar also offers advanced search options:

1. Click Menu > Advanced search.

2. Specify phrases, words, or words to exclude.

3. Filter by author, journal, or publication date.

Using advanced search in combination with Library Links ensures you find the most relevant and accessible materials through the University Libraries.

Step 10: Evaluating Scholarly Content

Not all Google Scholar results are peer-reviewed or scholarly. Evaluate sources by checking:

• The publication type (journal article, thesis, preprint).

• The author’s credentials and affiliation.

• Number of citations and the journal’s reputation.

When in doubt, consult a University librarian or your instructor to confirm the credibility of sources.

Step 11: Video Tutorials for Google Scholar

University of Minnesota Libraries provides short tutorial videos to guide students:

• Let's Talk Databases: Google Scholar (3:27 minutes)
  Covers access, keyword searching, filtering results, viewing full text, and citation generation.

• Getting the Most Out of Google Scholar (3:20 minutes)
  Explains differences between Google and Google Scholar, accessing licensed content via Library Links, and using advanced features.

These tutorials are recommended for first-time users or anyone wanting to optimize their Google Scholar searches.

Step 12: Tips for Efficient Research

1. Always access Google Scholar via the University Libraries website to automatically connect to Library Links.

2. Check for the FindIt@U of Twin Cities link before paying for an article.

3. Use advanced search and Boolean operators for precise results.

4. Combine Google Scholar with subject-specific databases for comprehensive research.

5. Save and organize citations for efficient reference management.

Step 13: Need Help?

If you encounter issues:

• Contact the University Libraries for assistance with linking Google Scholar.

• Ask librarians for guidance on accessing articles not available online.

• Use Interlibrary Loan for materials outside University subscriptions.

Librarians can provide personalized support to help you navigate both Google Scholar and University databases effectively.

Setting up Google Scholar with University of Minnesota Twin Cities Libraries ensures seamless access to full-text scholarly articles, saving you time and money. By configuring Library Links, using advanced search features, and combining searches with specialized databases, you can maximize the value of Google Scholar for your research projects. Remember to evaluate sources for credibility and consult librarians when necessary. Following this guide, you will be equipped to find high-quality, scholarly materials efficiently and access them directly through the University Libraries.