Smarter searching with library databases
Monday, 13 January, 2025 - 19:30
Learn how to access library databases, take advantage of the functionality they offer, and devise a proper search technique.
A database is a bit like an online catalogue where information is stored in a structured way.
The OU library has a collection of over five hundred different databases. These collections contain more than just journal articles and books - some databases also house resources like images, newspapers and music.
While certain databases like Academic Search Complete cover a broad range of topics, others are specifically tailored to particular subjects.
The Databases page of the library website contains the complete list of databases provided by the OU Library.
The Selected resources for your study page lists some recommended databases for each subject area.
You can use Library Search to search across most of our main databases all at once. Making it a convenient starting point for your research.
Alternatively you can search within each subject database separately. In general, searching within a subject database will retrieve fewer but more relevant results.
Most databases offer advanced search tools that enable you to refine your search criteria and obtain precise results. Learning these advanced search techniques is an academic skill that takes time to develop. The Finding resources for your assignment page provides useful activities to help you learn these skills.
Monday, 13 January, 2025 - 19:30
Learn how to access library databases, take advantage of the functionality they offer, and devise a proper search technique.