The following options are available to search for articles and other media such as ebooks, images, streaming video:
PowerSearch
- PowerSearch allows you to search many (almost all) of the library’s resources with a single search query.
- It searches our major databases plus online content that is available through Open Access.
When should I use PowerSearch?
- PowerSearch is a “best bet” when you are not sure how to start searching for your topic.
- PowerSearch is great for when your topic could be covered in multiple subject databases.
- PowerSearch can be very helpful when you have searched other databases but are still not finding enough information on your topic.
Databases A to Z
Another option is to search individual databases. Databases may be multi-disciplinary, covering many topics, or they may be subject specific, covering only one topic.
When should I search a specific database?
- As you move along in your academic career you will become familiar with various databases within your discipline. For example, EBSCO's PsycInfo and PsycArticles are heavily used by students majoring in Psychology. When you are looking for information within a specific field, it is often more effective to search a single database that covers that topic. Librarians can help you with this.
- One of the advantages to searching a subject specific database is that there are more ways to refine and limit your search, producing more focused results.
- For those new to research, a "best bet" database is Academic Search Complete. This database is very large and covers many topics.
