Help - Database Searching

Library

Get started
Library databases are used to locate references to journal articles, newspaper articles, chapters of books, research reports, book reviews, conference proceedings. When choosing a database to search you may want to consider geographic coverage, subject specialisation, availability of full-text and time period coverage.  Library staff can assist you with choosing databases and finding information for your topic. The Library Subject Guides provide you with a quick start list of databases relevant to your subject area.

Tips for Better Database Searching

• Define Keywords
• Direction Words
• Limit Words
• Linking Search Terms
• Complex Searches
• Too much Information
• Not Enough Information

For more information on searching databases try our online tutorials Analysing your topic and Developing a search strategy.

Get help
Every database has a help page which will tell you about its features and different ways to search.  In the library database list click on the   icon to be taken to a description of the database and a link to its help page. Your librarian can also help you with any questions you have. Speak with them in person or send a query online to Ask your librarian.

Get full-text 
Depending on the database you are using, you may have access to the full text, or just the publication details and a summary of the articles. If the database that you are searching does not provide full-text the Find it button searches for the full text of articles in other Library databases and selected free web resources.

It will also search the Library catalogue and tell you whether there is a print copy of the journal in ACU Library, along with years that are held and the call number. If the journal is held at another campus, you can fill out an intercampus request form and the article will be delivered to you electronically. If Find it cannot locate the article and you are a postgraduate student or staff member you can make an interlibrary request.