What is a Database?
A library database is an organized collection of copyrighted information that can be searched and accessed by users. Library databases can be general or focused. The Hill Library provides access to many different business-specific databases.
Examples of database content include:
- Profiles of U.S. and international companies
- Full-text articles published in newspapers and journals
- Electronic books
- U.S. Census data
- Market research reports
| LIBRARY DATABASES | WEB SITES |
| Library databases contain information created or compiled by experts. | Anyone can create content for the Web. |
| Library databases tell you where and when the information came from, such as author; publication date; title of the original publication, newswire service, or government agency. | Web sites can be unclear about where the information came from and when it was last updated. |
| Library databases are designed to provide high-quality, relevant search results. | Internet search engines are designed to sell advertisements. |
| Librarians carefully select and maintain the databases available at the Hill Library. Librarians can teach you how to perform database searches, and help you determine how to evaluate your search results. | Nobody is in charge of the Internet. |
