Alternative version of table shown in Section 3, Reading 1, Getting Organized for Research.
If you need BOOKS, use COAST.
- In COAST you can find: books, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and government documents.
- Good overall background.
- Use COAST to find books when you need to find lengthy overviews, analysis of a topic, or definitions.
If you need ARTICLES, use Indexes and Research Databases.
- Articles, books, and book chapter titles can be identified by using printed or electronic indexes or the research databases. Some, but not all, of the research databases will deliver the full text!
- Can be research oriented, news, or general information.
- Short and sweet.
- Use indexes and research databases to find articles from periodicals when you need scholarly research or a short explanation of an issue.
- Research Databases
For other materials, use the Internet.
- The Internet can include: government statistics, today's news, company web sites, and information about organizations.
- Usually very timely.
- Excellent source of federal and state government information.
- Just a mouse click away.
- Use the Internet when you need today's news, government statistics, or company information.
- Choose your search engine or use sites the librarians recommend.
Last Updated 11/2/12