DA125 Hiatt

NOTE: FOR YOUR DA125 CLASS - I suggest started with a library database, not the catalog. This information is included in case you can't find what you need in a database.

The nice thing about searching the library catalog is that it is what is called a "meta search." This means that it searches many different parts of the library collection including all print books owned by CCC Library and some article, ebook, and video databases we subscribe to. The image below shows what is searched and what is excluded.

This means that it's good to search the library catalog when:

• You want to cast a wide net. If you are first starting out, a meta search like the catalog can help you find background information and make sure there is information out there.
• You know exactly what you want. When you have a specific title of an information resource, the library catalog is the best place to start.
• You want a physical book.
• Need filters: The library catalog, unlike Google (another meta-search), has lots of built in tools for you to refine your search results.

If you learn best by practicing, check out this tutorial on using the library catalog.

This tutorial is brand new and hasn't been tested by students. Give it a try and if you want, let me know how it goes (sd.dewaay@clackamas.edu)!

This search tool is a free, credible, library alternative to Google. Find almost everything CCC Library has to offer to you - items in CCC Library, Summit Libraries, and most article databases. Then refine your search results to identify the best resources.

1. Enter your search terms.

1. Select Search.
2. Select Sign in and log in using your myClackamas email and password.

1. Refine your results by Availability:
   
   • Peer-reviewed - online articles published in peer-reviewed journals
   • Available at CCC - limit to print books in our collection
   • CCC Online Resources - resources you can access online
2. Refine your results by Resource Type:
   
   • Types of resources include newspaper articles, magazine articles, peer-reviewed journal articles, print books, eBooks, streaming videos, book reviews, audio files, DVDs, reference entries (dictionaries and encyclopedias), and more.
   • Think about what type of resource your instructor expects you to use on your assignment. Limit your results to just those acceptable types. 
3. Access the full text of each resource.
   
4. Click on the title of a resource to learn more about it.
   • The resource's record will appear, which tells you more about the item and how to access the full text. See an example.

Contact a CCC librarian if you have any questions!