Library databases are complex and specialized tools that offer numerous features to help you in the research process. Features found on both the Search Results page and the Article Information page (or record) are highlighted in the screenshots below.

Results Page

Regardless of the database you are using, your search results page is going to have the same basic features:

1. Usually on the left side, some options for limiting your search results.
2. Above the list of results, the number of results found, as well as a sort option.
3. The search results themselves. The title will be a link to more information about that search result. 
   • Either an icon to get to the full text (Go to Full-Text, PDF Full-Text, etc.), or a link to check for full text in another database (e.g., Full-Text Finder).
4. Usually to the right of each result (sometimes the folder option is on the left and other options are below or in the record itself), options to save to a folder, link to, cite and email the record.  The Pin icon, check box or folder icon is used to add that result to a temporary list. If you already have the item in your folder or list, clicking this will remove it. Note: To save items to this list permanently, you must sign in to your account with the database vendor (e.g., for OneSearch - your SUNY Empire username and password, or for EBSCO or Proquest, a separate login specific to that system) using the links provided at the top of the page.

Results Page in OneSearch:

Article Information Page (Record)

Clicking on the title of any information source in your search results page will take you to its Article Information Page or Record. On this page, you will find some or most of this information:

1. Full title, author(s), publication date, and publication information (publisher of a book or journal title, volume, issue, and pages for an article.)
2. (if available) Abstract: summary or description of the content
3. Descriptors or Subject Terms
4. Often, a suggested citation format for the information source. (Be sure to check it for errors.)
5. In most databases, a permalink to the information source. Note: Be sure to use this, and not the URL from the address bar of your browser.
6. A link to the full text of the information source, or a link to check for the full text in another database.
7. Options to save the information source, and also email it, print it, and export it to a reference management tool.
8. Another icon or check box to add the item to your temporary folder/list, or to remove it if you have already added it.
9. Sometimes the HTML full-text of the article (This may be missing page numbers, formatting, and images, but like any webpage, it is searchable using the Ctrl-F hot key combination).

Article Information Page in EBSCOHost:

Article Information Page in a ProQuest Database:

Please note: If you need to request accommodations with content linked to on this guide, on the basis of a disability, please contact Accessibility Resources and Services by emailing them.  Requests for accommodations should be submitted as early as possible to allow for sufficient planning. If you have questions, please visit the Accessibility Resources and Services website.