what is a library database?

  • Library databases contain information from published works.
    • Examples: Magazine and newspaper articles, encyclopedias and other reference books.
  • Library databases are searchable.
    • By Keywords, Subject, Author, Magazine Title, Date, etc.
  • Library databases provide citation information.
    • Author, if available
    • Title of Article
    • Publication (Title of Magazine, Newspaper, or Reference Book)
    • Publisher
    • Date of Publication
  • Library databases often contain full-text articles.
    • You can print or email an entire article.
  • There are different kinds of library databases
    • For specific topics. Examples: Biography Resource Center , New Book of Popular Science
    • For general topics Examples: ProQuest, World Book Online
  • Library databases are paid for by taxpayer dollars.
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Library Database

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                                 Library databases                                        vs

Library databases get their information from professionals or experts in the field.

Library databases contain published works where facts are checked.

Library databases are easy to cite in a bibliography and may create the citation for you.

Library databases can help you narrow your topic or suggest related subjects.

Library databases are updated frequently and include the date of publication.
                                      Web sites

Web sites can be written by anyone regardless of expertise.


Web site content is not necessarily checked by an expert.


Web sites often don’t provide the information necessary to create a complete citation.

Web sites often aren’t organized to support student research needs.

Web sites may not indicate when a page is updated.
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