Write Your Paper Using the Online Databases

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You say your teacher requires you to use three sources: an encyclopedia, a book, and a periodical article? No problem! All three types of sources are available online.

Follow these easy steps to begin:

• Start by getting background information and an overview of your topic. Usually, an encyclopedia article can provide this information. The Library offers the Encyclopędia Britannica Online Reference Center. If you are outside the Library you will be prompted to enter your Library Card number to be directed to the database.
• Consult a reference book from the Gale Virtual Reference Library collection or read an eBook from NetLibrary. You must create an account to use NetLibrary at home. Search NetLibrary by author, subject, title, or keyword. You can search the full text of all the books to pinpoint the information you need. There are more than 27,000 titles, so chances are good that you will find the book you need.
• The Library offers several full-text periodical databases. Find a journal, magazine, or newspaper article here! Start with MasterFILE Premier or CQ Researcher.
• Don't forget your bibliography! See the Duke University Libraries' Citing Sources for examples of formats from any one of four style manuals: APA, Chicago, MLA, and Turabian. .

You did it! Remember the reference databases for your next assignment. The Library offers databases in many subject areas. Databases are available to everyone at all Austin Public Library locations. APL cardholders can access them 24 hours a day from home or office computers. To find out more call 512-974-7400.

See past featured databases.

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Popular Databases

• Austin American-Statesman
• Biography Resource Center
• Encyclopedia Britannica Reference Center
• Factiva
• HeritageQuest Online
• MasterFILE Premier
• PowerSpeak Languages
• ReferenceUSA
• Value Line Investment Survey Plus
• WorldCat

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Tips on Finding the Right Database for your Search

• Use the subject listings on the right of the page to select a database.
• See a brief description of each database under the title. Click on more for details.
• Use the individual database's help feature for tips on searching the database.
• Search eJournal Finder to find a specific journal, magazine, or newspaper in the databases. A link to eJournal Finder is under tools on the left side of the screen.
• See the APL database help pages for more tips.