Chapter 2: Searching

2.5 Databases and Indexes

Databases and indexes are the third category of search tools we are examining in this chapter.

Databases

If you are not familiar with databases, you will learn about them in this class! These massive hoards of knowledge have similarities but also traits that are unique to each one. For example, consider three different databases available at Steely Library that are recommended from Public Relations students: Communication & Mass Media Complete, Business Source Ultimate, and ABI/Inform Global. While there’s likely some overlap, each will contain some unique sources not found in another one.

Screenshot of databases available for PR majors
Recommended databases at Steely Library for PR majors
Research Guides are a tool to find databases by subject. Librarians tag databases for each major and compile targeted lists within the Research Guides.

Indexes

Some publishers create logs, or indexes, of all the work they have published. An index can include a summary and subject tags to help direct you to a specific source from that publisher.

Quick Check!

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LIN 175: Information Literacy Copyright © 2022 by Steely Library Education & Outreach Services, Northern Kentucky University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.