Databases operate much like library catalogs, although they focus on a different collection of sources. While a library catalog allows you to search for publications owned by the library, a database allows you to search for sources that have been published on a particular topic or in a particular discipline regardless of whether the library owns the sources. Although some databases, such as ERIC, MedLine, and Science Direct, are available publicly via the Web, most are available only through library computers or a library Web site.

Databases supply publication information and brief descriptions of the information in a source; some — but not all — provide electronic copies of the source. Using the citation information provided by the database, you can check your library’s catalog for the title of the publication in which the source appears. If your library does not own the publication, you can request it through interlibrary loan.