Research in philosophy also often takes the form of efforts to refine analyses, develop and advance or criticize interpretations, explore alternative perspectives and new ways of thinking, suggest and apply modified or novel modes of assessment, and, in general to promote new understanding. - American Philosophical Association Statement on Research
Research in philosophy is often not so much about experimentation and finding objective evidence, but about thinking through issues and concerns. However, your thinking must be informed, and that is where the library comes in. The library can provide you with access to the information that will inform your thinking about the particular concern under examination. This guide will show you what is available, how to know what kind of information you need, and how to find it.
If you're researching a question or a topic that is new to you, you might want to start by gathering some background information. Reference sources like those linked below are good places to get started with a topic.
The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy by 
The Oxford Companion to the Mind by 
Concise Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy by You may also want to look for books on your topic. You can search the library's book collection from OneSearch. Limit to books from the drop down or from the left-hand sidebar filters once you've done your search.
