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5.1: Databases 101

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    This week we delve into finding articles by using the library databases including how and why you would want to use these sources.

    What is a library database?

    Definition: Library database

    A library database is a searchable collection of information including journal articles, eBooks, streaming videos, and newspapers. Databases include both popular and scholarly information.

    How is a library database different from the BBCC Library Catalog?

    Databases vs. Library Catalog
    Databases Library Catalog
    1. Include resources for specialized topics and disciplines (e.g., business, nursing, or criminal justice). Can also include every topic/discipline.
    2. Share specific information types (e.g., peer-reviewed articles, streaming videos, eBooks).
    3. Host the full text themselves when full text is available.
    4. Require you to log in with Big Bend username and password to use it.
    5. Offer hundreds of thousands of resources.
    1. Includes resources for every topic and discipline.
    2. Shares all resource types.
    3. Links you to other places to get the full text of resources.
    4. Does not require you to log in with Big Bend username and password to use it.
    5. Offers millions of resources.

    When to use a library database

    I recommend searching in a database when you are searching for:

    • peer-reviewed articles
    • background information on a topic
    • full-text of articles and eBooks
    • a specific type of resource (e.g., eBook, streaming video)
    • information published from the perspective of a specific discipline (e.g., psychology, nursing)

    Accessing library databases

    1. Visit BBCC'c Bonaudi Library's homepage(opens in new window).
    2. Select Databases A-Z in the main navigation bar.
    3. You will then find a long list of all of our databases. (There are over 100!)

    Logging into a database from off-campus

    Continuing from the list of databases...

    1. Select a database (e.g., Academic Search Premier).
    2. Log in using your Big Bend username and password.
    3. Select Submit.
    4. Success!

    Trouble logging in? Call 509-793-2350 for help.

    Choosing a discipline-specific database

    • Open BBCC Library's A-Z Database list(opens in new window).
    • Under the "BY SUBJECT" dropdown menu, choose a subject.
    • Select a subject-specific database from the resulting list.
      • Pro tip: Choose the subject of your topic, not your class.

    database by subjects.png

    Take a look to see what databases are recommended for the subject related to your topic.

    5.1: Databases 101 is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Clackamas Community College Library.