If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of doing academic research, you’re not
alone. The good news? The library has powerful tools and real people ready to help
you every step of the way. Whether you’re writing a paper, preparing a presentation,
or diving into a topic for a class project, skip the Google search—Fulton Library’s
databases and research guides are your best place to start.
Starting Your Research
Sometimes, the most difficult part of working through research is knowing where to begin. You can access Fulton Library’s Research LibGuide to learn research basics, watch an introductory research tutorial, and search for articles.
Finding Sources in Databases
One of the best ways to find reliable academic sources is through the library’s article databases. You can begin right from the search box on the Fulton Library homepage, which searches across a wide range of scholarly and popular publications. This is a great starting point for general searches.
If you're doing more in-depth research, you may want to explore the full list of databases that the library subscribes to. These databases are grouped by subject, making it easy to find the best ones for your topic, or you can also access Fulton Library’s resources on identifying databases for your research. Each database has its own strengths, so don’t hesitate to try a few or ask a librarian about which one fits your topic best.
Using Search Strategies That Work
Library databases don’t work like Google. To get the best results, you’ll want to use more precise search techniques. Instead of typing full questions, use a few key terms that relate directly to your topic. To connect your ideas, you’ll use what are called search strings—these help you narrow or broaden your search results depending on what you need. Learning how to combine these effectively can make a huge difference in the quality of sources you find. You can find more information about what makes an effective search on our website.
And remember—if your search isn’t giving you the results you want, that doesn’t mean there aren’t good sources out there. It often just means your search terms need adjusting, and the library staff can help with that.
Exploring Research the Right Way
Learning to use library databases is one of the most valuable skills you’ll gain in college. These tools give you access to credible, high-quality sources you won’t find with a quick Google search. And best of all, you’re not on your own—Fulton Library’s resources, tutorials, and librarians are all here to support you.
So, the next time you’re staring down a research assignment, don’t panic. Start with the library homepage, explore a few databases, and use smart search strategies to zero in on the information you need. And when in doubt, ask a librarian—that's what they're here for!