Library Guides: English 251: Social Issues

For Instructor: Jackie Lawton
Developed by  Librarian: Gina Haycock
September 23 2008

However, through the Electronic Resources link on the COS Library’s Web Site, a student can locate indexing and many full-text periodical articles regardless of whether the LRC subscribes to the source. Because these indexes are part of what is known as the Invisible Web, that is, proprietary databases, they are available by subscription only; the LRC pays fees so that COS students can use them. If a student is off campus, passwords are necessary to access these databases. Passwords are available for COS students at the COS LRC Information Desk or by calling the Information Desk at(559) 737-6179.

Here are some general guidelines to think about before typing anything in the search boxes:

• Allow plenty of time for searching, depending on your topic getting good results may take longer than you think.

• Allow time to read the article before emailing or printing, especially, when doing a key word search, because you may get false hits.

• Choose the most appropriate database for your topic.

• Take time to look at the search screen as a whole and make choices appropriate to your topic or assignment.

• Focus on getting precisely what you are looking for, not how many results you get.

• Use Boolean operators: and, or, not, whenever appropriate or allowed by the software. This option is often available in advanced search.

• Identify key words and possible subject headings and synonyms. For Example:

There is no one "right way" to search in these databases, but if you take some time to think about which database to use and to plan your search terms,  you will save time in the long run. Remember, GARBAGE IN, GARBAGE OUT!

When using an electronic database it is important to know the difference between subject and key word searching. In subject searching, you can begin with broad topics of possibly one or two words, and the indexing will help you to narrow your search.

• Infotrac - Infotrac provides articles from more than 500 scholarly, trade and general-interest publications, as well as references for The New York Times. The databases integrate core titles in every major academic concentration; area  and issue-specific journals; academic journals with application in the professions; and publications with national news coverage and commentary.  The time period it covers is current year to date + the previous 3 years. The optional back file extends coverage as far back as 1980.  (Annual Cost $9,732)

A database specializing in current topics is:

• SIRS (Social Issues Research Series) - SIRS contains all full-text articles from a variety of newspaper and magazines covering current social issues.  (Annual Cost $1440)

A database known for its pro and con coverage of controversial issues is:

• CQ Researcher - Complete source on the most current and controversial issues of the day with complete summaries, all the pros and cons, bibliographies and more. (Annual Cost $523)

A database for authoritative newspaper coverage is:

• Proquest National Newspapers Core - This database includes: LA Times, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Christian Science Monitor and The Washington Post (part of ProQuest databases)

For current issues regarding California and/or local problems, these newspapers may be the best choice:

• Los Angeles Times - This full-text database covers 1985 to the present

• Fresno Bee -  This full-text database covers 1985 to the present (Annual Cost $2,310)

This page was created: September 2008.  This page was last updated: 09/16/2008
For Questions and Comments, please mail to ginah@cos.edu