Problem Background, Clarification, and Possible Solutions
Using library resources, it may be possible to locate professional, scholarly, and trade literature that may help provide background information concerning a design problem. Such literature may also clarify aspects of the design problem. This literature may include books, journal articles, technical and legal information.
Such literature might provide information on the history and development of a problem, together with data and insight into what has been tried and was successful and what has failed and why. The literature may even suggest a possible solution.
Legal and Ethical Issues
Legal databases and resources -- typically housed in libraries -- should be consulted as part of any design process. The professional and trade literature -- available through library resources -- may also discuss both legal and and ethical concerns associated with a specific design project.
Identifying Experts
Traditional library resources can help you to identify expert individuals and expert organizations in your specific design project. These resources include a unique online encyclopedia of organizations and databases which additionally feature an author's organizational affiliation.