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Database
A database provides
a way of organizing information so that you can easily find what
you are looking for. Some types of databases are:
Print
Databases
The index of a book is a print index. It allows you to go quickly
to a topic in the book. A phone book is another type of print
database. |
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Research
Databases
We usually think of searchable electronic indexes and catalogs
when we refer to databases. The WCC Library Catalog, InfoTrac,
Wilson Select Plus, and Lexis/Nexis Academic Universe are
examples of research databases. They let you quickly go
to a topic in books or periodicals.
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In
an research database each article or book has its own record,
which provides information about it.
Each record is composed of individual pieces of information called
fields. Fields include such information as the author, title, publisher,
subject heading, etc. for that item. Each of these fields is a searchable
access point to the information.
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