What's the difference between websites/web searches and library databases?
1. Generally, websites and library databases both can contain:
NOTE: Researchers should take the time to verify research results by checking several other reliable sources before using it or acting on it. (See more about how to determine what types of sources are credible at Empire State University’s Research Skills Tutorial here.)
2. Library databases do not generally use natural language to search, but use specialized wording and symbols. One of the benefits of using library databases is that they give more precise results than websites or web searches, which may include duplicate or irrelevant results.
3. In addition, library databases contain content that is sometimes only available by paying for it. The library pays for access to that information on behalf of the community it serves.
4. Online web searches often do use natural language, but the results may not be exactly what a researcher is looking for.
5. The order of an online result list is also often based on the priorities of the companies who offer the search (usually at no out-of-pocket cost), rather than the priorities of the researcher.
PPLD Databases
For area-focused or subject-focused databases, see the blue tabs (at the top of the screen on mobile devices or at the left of the screen on computers).
Recommended Websites
For area-focused or subject-focused websites, see the blue tabs (at the top of the screen on mobile devices or at the left of the screen on computers).