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What is a Database?

library.jwu.edu

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Definition

• A database is an organized collection of information

• Database content can be easily accessed, updated and managed

• Databases can be accessed online• Library databases include thousands

of magazine articles, newspapers, and scholarly journals

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Why use a library database?

Save Time Save Effort Better Product!

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Can’t I find the information contained in databases if I use Internet search engines?

• NO! Copyright protects authors and publishers from other people copying their work without permission. If published material could be accessed for free on the Internet than authors and publishers couldn’t make money.

• Libraries pay to have access to this information through databases.

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What Information Can You Find in the Library’s Databases?

JournalsNewspapers Magazines

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• These are two of the library’s most popular databases:

– Academic Search Premier: General Studies Journals/Newspapers

– Business Source Complete: Business Journals/Newspapers

• The library subscribes to over 50 databases. Ask a librarian for help!

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Library Databases vs. Free Websites

• Library Databases are reviewed by publishers.

• Websites are not reviewed. Anyone can put their ideas or opinions on the Internet.

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Library Databases vs. Free Websites

• Library Databases are not free. The library is paying a subscription fee and only JWU students are able to access them using the library barcode on your University ID.

• The Internet: Most search engines and websites are free, but the information you find might not be sufficiently reliable or current for academic research.

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So, when is it important to use library databases instead of free websites?

• If you are a student doing research and you are looking for reliable sources of information related to academic subjects. (most college instructors require database research)

• If you need reliable information from newspapers, magazines, scholarly journals, or biographical or statistical information.

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Created By:Talia Resendes and Ariela McCaffrey2010