A database is a collection of organized and stored information designed for search and retrieval. Databases come in various forms and can be used for different applications.
Libraries typically subscribe to research databases. Research databases are electronic platforms that contain a collection of electronic information that is searchable and, in most cases, retrievable in full-text format. Specifically, they encompass articles from periodicals like academic journals, newspapers, magazines, and trade publications. You can find an alphabetical list of all of the library's databases and their descriptions on the A-Z Databases list.
Databases are designed to function differently from search engines like Google or Yahoo. The key to navigating databases is to apply certain search techniques that work well with databases. See below for more information about database search techniques and tools.
Not all databases process search input the same way; however, a majority do incorporate a phrase searching function. Phrase searching is another technique that can be used to narrow a search.
To initiate a phrase search, enclose a search term, phrase, or title in quotation marks or parentheses.
Example: "business management" or (business management)
There are two main strategies for searching in library databases: using either keywords or subject terms.
Keywords are general words or phrases used to describe a topic and originate from the user.
Subject terms, also known as subject headings, are specific words used by indexers and catalogers to describe content in databases.
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Keywords |
Subject Terms |
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Uncontrolled terminology and natural language, permitting an open form of searching |
Controlled vocabulary originating from particular fields of study |
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Search terms originate from the user |
Vocabulary is already assigned by an expert |
|
Unfamiliar with the technical terminology of a subject |
Knowledgeable in the terminology of a particular subject |
|
Broadens the search and set of results |
Narrows the search for a refined set of results |
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Can appear in several areas of a source (e. g. document title, publication titles, subject headings, abstract, summary, and full text) |
Typically appear in the subject heading field on the article's record page |
Searching by Subject Terms
Subject terms are formal and differ from database to database, so before searching by subject term, the correct term will need to be identified. Generally, subject terms can be found on an article's record page, or there may be a link labeled "Thesaurus" or "Subject Terms" on the database's advanced search screen.
Once a subject term has been identified, it can be entered into the database's search box, and then the "Subject Terms" field from the drop-down menu to the right of the search box should be selected.
Boolean operators in databases are tools that allow researchers to connect keywords to refine, broaden, or narrow a search. Boolean is an application of database logic, consisting of three operators: AND, OR, and NOT
Fields are elements of a source's record that can be searched in databases. These fields include, but are not limited to the following:
A database's searchable fields can usually be found to the right of the keyword search boxes:
The CSU librarians can support you during the research process with personalized reference services. We are happy to help you with the following tasks: