What are databases? -

and how are they different from an online library catalog?

Databases are online collections of information that enable you to search an assortment of journals and other information sources at the same time. Each database is its own unique assemblage of information, usually centered around a theme or focus. For example, the InfoTrac Custom Newspapers database focuses on full-text coverage of over 100 newspapers in the U.S. and worldwide. The Health and Wellness Resource Center Database focuses on medical information.

The information contained in databases cannot be searched through using a library catalog. An online library catalog and a database are totally distinct from one another. Each database must be searched individually or by using the Library of Texas interface, through which many databases may be searched simultaneously.

Some databases offer full text, which means the entire text of the article is contained within that database. The content of the article can be read online, printed out, or emailed in order to save it for future use.

Other databases offer citations and abstracts only. An abstract of an article is simply a short account or summary of the information found within the longer article. A citation is just a description of where to find the article. A citation will tell you who the author is, in what journal and volume the article was published, and the date it was published. When a database provides only the citation of an article, that means the full-text of the article is not available in that database. You must take the next step to locate the actual journal, in which the article was published, in order to read it. At this point, you need to use your library catalog to search for the journal at your library or request it through inter-library loan.

Full-text TexShare databases:

Academic & General Content:

• Academic Search Premier
• Masterfile Premier
• Military and Government Collection
• Literature Resource Center
• NetLibrary eBook Collection

Business Content:

• Regional Business News
• Business Source Premier

Health and Medical Content:

• Health and Wellness Resource Center

Genealogy Content:

• HeritageQuest

Newspaper Content:

• InfoTrac Custom Newspapers

The TexShare Databases are supported in part by funds granted to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, an independent Federal grant-making agency dedicated to creating and sustaining a nation of learners by helping libraries and museums serve their communities.

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(FOR CARD-HOLDING TEXAS LIBRARY PATRONS)