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Library Research: Understanding Library Databases: Why are databases useful?

John B. Cade Library

 

Databases are useful when you need credible library resources for your research such as journals, books, reference titles, newspapers, magazines and much more.

Why is it a good choice to use library databases to conduct research for your research paper?

Library Databases are useful for Authority, Accuracy, and Access.

  • Authority- Library databases contain works from professionally published sources and information are more likely to come from an expert on a particular topic. Unlike a website where it may be hard to tell who is responsible for the content, a library database clearly indicates the author and source.
  • Accuracy and currency-Information in library databases are checked for accuracy and library databases always include the date of publication.
  • Access- Library databases offer options like related terms, search options to broaden or narrow the search, and other organizational tools that support your research.