Databases can be general or specific
Start with a general database and then try more specific ones.
- general database examples: Academic Search Premier or Google Scholar - search many subjects at once
- specific database example: APA PsycInfo - focuses on a few specific areas
Databases can also focus exclusively on source types
Some databases are great for academic journal articles. Others offer a mix source types like videos, maps, data, music, historic primary sources (e.g. old letters) and more.
Databases and you
- The U of M provides access to hundreds of different databases for your research. When you search a library database, you will see content that is only available to UMN students, and may not be included in Google (or similar) search results.
- Do NOT pay for PDFs! The Library can get it for you - just use the online request form.
Watch: What is a library database?
