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Database
A database provides
a way of organizing information so that you can easily find what
you are looking for. Some types of databases are:
Print
Databases
The index of a book is a print index. It allows you to go quickly
to a topic in the book. A phone book is another type of print
database. |
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Electronic
Databases
We usually think of searchable electronic indexes and catalogs when we refer to
databases. The Archway Library catalog, Ebsco Host, SIRS Knowledge
Source and Lexis Nexis Academic Universe are examples of electronic
databases. They let you quickly go to a topic in books or periodicals.
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In
an electronic database each article or book has its own record,
which provides information about it.
Each record is composed of individual pieces of information called
fields. Fields include such information as the author, title, publisher,
subject heading, etc. for that item. Each of these fields is a searchable
access point to the information.
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