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Library Research FAQ

FAQ and introduction to using A.T. Still Memorial Library for online research and learning

What Is a Library Database?

Library databases take a variety of forms and cover a variety of content. Most often, people associate the library with research databases: databases that search through a large number of journals to find articles on a given subject. These databases usually focus on a particular topic area, although some are broad by design.

The ATSU Library also subscribes to many other kinds of databases, including:

  • eBook collections, where you can find many of your textbooks and reference texts
  • exam prep resources that you can use to study for licensure exams, board exams, EORs, and more
  • point-of-care tools to support clinical practice
  • procedure video databases
  • interactive anatomy apps
  • video databases that help you learn research skills
  • and more!

Why Should You Use Databases Instead of Google?

While Google is great in our day-to-day lives, it is not designed to filter information or focus on scholarly content. Our research databases are curated, containing only scholarly resources, often a specific topic. This makes it much easier to find high-quality information on a given topic. Additionally, many of our other databases which contain books, videos, and more, contain content that can not be found on the open internet.

How to Find Library Databases

The A-Z Database List is the library's comprehensive list of all databases the library provides or recommends. It includes both databases the library pays for, as well as free online resources that have been vetted by the librarians. Using the A-Z Database list is the best way to access our resources without running into technical issues.

See the video below for more information on using the A-Z database list.

In addition to the A-Z database list, there are smaller, curated lists of databases on many of our guides, including program toolkits, topical guides, and course-specific guides. This makes it easy to find a list of the most important databases for your program, topic area, or class. Check out the LibGuide Index (or click on LibGuides in the top navigation bar) to find a guide that fits your needs.

Still OneSearch

Still OneSearch is the library's custom database that searches many of our databases at the same time. If you want a quick and comprehensive search of everything the library has to offer, this is your best best. 

Still OneSearch v. Library Databases

Still OneSearch is great for:

  • doing a quick search
  • getting a comprehensive view of a topic
  • searching different kinds of content at once (including books, articles, videos, etc)

Use individual databases for:

  • focused literature searches
  • clinical questions
  • searching in a specific topic/field
  • searching for a particular type of resources

Other Important Guides