Each library database looks different, but most have similar features. I have used generic terms to describe these basic features. Please remember that individual databases may not use the same terms I have used. This description covers library databases that deal in periodical articles , or articles from magazines, journals, and newspapers. A few library databases cover numeric data like statistics, and these rules do not necessarily apply to them.
Some library databases have an introductory screen.
Usually this screen requires you to Select a Database for searching if more than one is available, or Select a Search Type . In many databases you can either search for a specific topic, or browse by journal title, so that you can look through all the articles from a journal that interests. If you want to browse, look for an option such as Journals , Journal Finder , or Journal Browse . The Simple Search is the default. The Simple Search is usually a Keyword Search .