A library database is an online resource that the library subscribes to that contains articles and information from print sources such as magazines, newspapers, journals, and reference books.
How is a library database different from a website?
Library databases | Web sites |
---|---|
Library databases get their information from professionals or experts in the field. | Web sites can be written by anyone regardless of expertise. |
Library databases contain published works where facts are checked. | Web site content is not necessarily checked by an expert. |
Library databases are easy to cite in a bibliography and may create the citation for you. | Web sites often don’t provide the information necessary to create a complete citation. |
Library databases can help you narrow your topic or suggest related subjects. | Web sites often aren’t organized to support student research needs. |
Library databases are updated frequently and include the date of publication. | Web sites may not indicate when a page is updated. |
Questions to ask about ANY information:
Any source, whether a library database or website, can have good information. It is necessary to think critically about all information that you read or view.