So, what's out there? How do you know if there is a database available for your specific information need? Here are a some strategies for finding them.
Here are some Web indexes and directories that are rich sources for finding useful databases. To use these sources effectively:
| ipl2 | Search for a topic along with the word "database." Try this: Search for recipe database to find a source with information on vegetarian food. |
| Intute | Search or drill down by topical area to discover which databases are available. Try this: Click on Advanced Search. Search all fields for: plants and limit it to Resource type: non-bibliographic databases |
| Yahoo! Directory | Enter a broad topic in the search box along with the word "database." Try this: Search for these words and browse results: architecture database |
Because the databases available to you will vary depending on which library you are affiliated with, there are basically two best options for finding which commercial (fee-based) databases may be provided by your local library:
Generally a list of databases available to you will appear here. These are sometimes arranged by title of database, by broad subject area, or both.
Reference librarians exist to steer you to the right library resources. Take advantage!
Connect to the OSU Libraries list of research databases, and browse by subject. Select Multimedia to find a database that will help you locate art and architecture images.
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