LibGuides: Using Library electronic resources: Where do I start?

Logging in to resources

A small number of databases require a special username and password. These details are available via the username and passwords page for registered users.

Library Search - full size

Library Search

Library Search - Why use anything else?

Library Search enables you to find high quality resources from a wide range of sources in a single search.

It is great as a starting point.
It covers all topics
If you are looking for a specific book or journal title, you can quickly find out if you have access
If you are looking for a range of content on a particular topic you can find a large amount of full text material, drawn from across the databases available via the Library

BUT - be aware that ...

It doesn’t cover every database, some specialist content needs to be searched separately.
It does not have all the advanced search options like the specialist databases. Some databases have in built thesauri and expert search tools which can assist with complex search strategies
It does not provide personalisation/alert features. Some databases allow you to save and rerun searches or set up alert services for current awareness.

A- Z Databases

Library Search is often a good starting point for introductory material, but if you want to research the global literature on a topic, and go beyond quick full text results, then you should follow up with a database search. You can tailor your search more precisely using all the sophisticated functionality available on the research databases.

To find databases, use the A-Z list. See the next tab for help with finding the best databases for your topic.

You can browse or search the database list. The description beneath each database title indicates the content and coverage of the database.

Select databases by Subject

You can select your subject from the drop down Subjects menu to see a subset of resources in that category.

The subject listings will highlight the 'core resources'; these are key databases that are likely to be of interest to anyone studying and researching in that area.

Your Subject LibGuide will also highlight recommended databases for you to explore.

Select databases by Type

You can select a database type from the drop down Types menu to see a subset of resources in that category.

For example, you may want to focus on news or official publications etc

Research material can be drawn from a wide range of different types of information. You may wish to use specialist sources such as news items, statistical data, archival and audiovisual materials.

Find out more by visiting the Searching for specific types of information libguide.

Using Library electronic resources: Where do I start?