This document provides an overview of how to use the Clemson University Libraries website to find prior research articles, journals, and databases. It explains the differences between search engines and databases and recommends starting research on the Libraries homepage. From there, users can use the OneSearch box for a general search or click "Start Your Research" and "Databases A-Z" for a more targeted search. Browsing subjects will direct users to library guides for that topic containing relevant database recommendations and a contact for the subject librarian.

1. Using the Clemson Library Website
to Find Articles, Journals, and
Databases
How to Locate Prior Research
Summer 2015

2. Need help finding prior research?
• CU Libraries can help!
• This PowerPoint will explain how you can access
a variety of resources using the CU Libraries
website.
• But first…a little vocabulary….

3. What’s the difference?

4. Search Engine
Search Engine
• A collection of
databases
• Common search
engines that can be
accessed through
Clemson Libraries
include: Academic Search
Complete, LexusNexus,
and Google Scholar

5. Beginning your search
• Navigate to the CU
Libraries home page:
http://www.clemson.
edu/library/

6. OneSearch
• You can use the OneSearch box to immediately begin searching for
books, articles, and journals
• However, this is a generalized search, so it may not return all of the
desired search results.

7. • For a more specific search,
click the “Start Your Research”
link on the left side of the
page.

8. You can choose a
specific search engine…
…or search by database.
Click “Databases A-Z”
for a full list.

9. You can also search
for journals by title.

10. • Scrolling down the “Articles and Research” page will reveal a list of subjects.
• Clicking on a subject will take you to a page dedicated to all resources for
research on that topic – including which databases will yield the best results
and which reference librarian to contact with questions and for help.
• For example, let’s click on “Biological Sciences.”

11. You are immediately re-directed to the Library Guide
home for biological sciences.
Use the purple tabs to find books, articles, and more.
If you have questions, you can contact the E-Science
Librarian: Megan.

12. • Clicking on the “Find
Articles” tab will bring
you to a page that lists
all of the databases
related to your subject
(in this case, biological
sciences).
• If you are unsure
about which database to
use for your subject, this
is a great way to find
out.

13. Questions?
• This is not the only way to search for prior
research using the Clemson Libraries website.
You are encouraged to explore the site and see
what you can find!
• If you have any additional questions about using
Clemson Libraries’ online resources, please post
to the “Week 2 – Chapter 5” discussion board.
• Happy researching!