5.3: 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 CCC Library Catalog?

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

When to use a library database

I recommend searching in a CCC Library 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

Visit CCC Library's homepage(opens in new window).
Select Articles and A-Z databases under the heading "Research tools."
You will then find a long list of all of our databases. (There are over 100!)

Logging into a database from off-campus

Visit CCC Library's homepage(opens in new window).
Select Articles and A-Z databases under the heading "Research tools."
Select a database (e.g., Academic OneFile).
Log in using your full myClackamas email address and password.
Select Submit.
Success!

Trouble logging in? Call 503-594-6323 or 503-594-6042 for help.

Choosing a discipline-specific database

Open CCC Library's A-Z Database list(opens in new window).
Under the "All Subjects" 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.

Screenshot of the A-Z Databases list

Take a look to see what databases are recommended for the subject related to your topic. For your assignment you will be searching Academic Search Complete, but it is good to know other, more specific databases are available.