Find Articles

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Step One: Find your database

You have a research topic and now you need a relevant database to search. Peruse the find articles guide to get familiar with the basic databases for general disciplines. Or you could use one of the subject specific guides created by librarians to help you find a database or specific journal title. Remember - if one database isn't giving you the results you want, feel free to switch to another database. Are you stuck? Polish your searching skills with our top ten tips for tackling tricky database queries. (As an Illinois student or faculty member you can access these resources from computers on-campus or from any off-campus computer by logging in through the proxy server.)

Where do I find the library databases?

Step Two: Online Research Resources (ORR)

Now you are ready to find your specific database using the Online Research Resources (ORR) page. Keep in mind that you can only search for the name of a journal title or the name of a database in the search box. You cannot browse by subject. For example, you can search for "Wall Street Journal" but not for "death penalty." Each database interface will look a bit different and search in a different way. Most recent articles are available in full-text, which means that you can view the entire article from your computer. You can email, print or save these articles for your research. For some articles, especially older ones, you will only be provided with a citation and an abstract.

What if my article is not available in full-text?

Step Three: Finding print articles

Not everything is available in electronic format. Keep your citation (name of journal, volume, and issue) handy. Now search the library's online catalog for the location of the print journal. You can do a " Quick Search" since you know the title of the journal. Look to see which library holds the issue or volume that you need and jot down the location and call number. Now you need to visit a departmental library to make a photocopy.

What if the library doesn't have my print article?

Step Four: Interlibrary Loan

If your article is not available in full-text online and it is not available in print, you can request the article through Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery. Make sure to choose "Request a photocopy" and fill out the entire form, including the source of the citation. This process typically takes 7-10 days, so plan ahead! Interlibrary Loan will most likely deliver your article as a .pdf file to your email address.

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