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LIBRARY WEBSITE: Database Help

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finding eJournals and Articles

What is a database?

A Library database is an organised collection of records or items that you can search or browse using a computer or mobile device. Databases may be subject-specific, while others cover a range of subjects.

Databases are mainly used for journals and articles, but can also contain other format types:

  • scholarly journals and articles; trade journals; newspapers articles
  • eBooks
  • theses and dissertations
  • videos
  • images
  • company records.

In journal databases, each record contains information which summarises the journal or article.

NT Health Library subscribes to health related databases, where the full-text of articles may be available. Others may only provide the citation and the full text may need to be requested through the library Resource Delivery Service.

You can browse a database for relevant material but you can also search using keywords or key phrases. Most databases have  'Advanced' search options that allow for systematic search and retrieval of content . Our Database Tutorial Page can assist you with tips and tricks to searching, with guidance on using these 'advanced' options. Our librarians are also available to provide training or assistance through the 'Book a Librarian' request form

Where to Search?

Conducting a thorough search of the Library Databases A-Z to identify all relevant studies is a key factor in determining gaps within an area of research.  It is best to search multiple databases when looking for research as you will often find unique articles depending on the platform or content; in some cases cross indexing will also occur. Here are some suggestions to search when looking for literature :

  • Searching electronic databases
    • PubMed / Medline
    • Informit (Australian Health Databases)
    • CINAHL
    • PsychInfo
    • ScienceDirect
  • Citation searching
    • Scanning reference lists of relevant studies
  • Contacting study authors, experts, manufacturers, and other organisations
  • Searching relevant Internet resources
  • Searching Google Scholar to check "Cited by"
  • Grey Literature

The A-Z Database Page

The A-Z Databases page is the main place to find and access databases.

You can:

  • locate a database by its title from an alphabetical list
  • choose from the Subject list at left of page, or use the Subject drop-down
  • find databases of a particular type, eg. Video collections; News & Current Affairs
  • find popular databases from a list at right of page

PubMed Search Example

Databases A-Z

Tutorials and Database Help