Wiki Page, GOTT Clover II: Access and Use (3 of 5): Library Databases

Wiki Page
2016-08-14T21:35:44-06:00

The search screen for a library database may look somewhat intimidating and complex compared to a search screen like Google, but don't worry! You may already be familiar with databases like EBSCO Academic Search Premier or JSTOR.

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A database is similar to a search engine in that you can use keywords to find relevant results. However, while a search engine scans the World Wide Web, a database stores a specific set of information or sources that can be both public and privately owned.

Access to these databases usually costs a subscription fee of thousands of dollars, but you should never pay for articles while at IU Southeast. Part of your tuition goes to the library and a subscription to these databases for all IUS students, faculty, and staff. You can check out a comprehensive list of all the databases we subscribe to at Databases A-Z.

Library databases also speak a different language from search engines. Keywords can help, but the keywords you use and the limiters you select to narrow your results may take a little more time and practice.