Another advantage of online indexes is the ability to print or download citations. Print indexes are valuable when the topic can be defined by a single term, the subject area is not well covered by the computer databases available, or you need to go back more years than are available in the databases. The print indexes are located on tables and tall stacks behind the reference desk. There are guide cards at the end of each row indicating which indexes are on each side. Internet based indexes are accessible from the library's homepage.
Some databases are available from only one workstation.
The first step in finding articles on a topic is to think of words which describe it. Start searching for the most specific terms and if relevant articles aren't listed look for more general terms. Article entries in the computer databases often include descriptors or subject headings which are helpful in picking alternate terms. Most print indexes have an introduction which explains what subjects are covered and how some special items are handled. For example, the introduction to the Readers' Guide to Periodical Literature tells how to find movie reviews and several other specific kinds of articles.