Some databases are good for almost any subject, and others are more specialized and only of value for one or a few disciplines. They may contain different types of sources (journal articles, e-books, newspaper articles, dissertations, primary sources, images, streaming video/audio, etc.). And some may be all full-text, while others just show you a citation. So it's totally understandable to feel overwhelmed at the thought of choosing a database.
Need mostly books? Start with WorldCat Discovery (the search box on the library home page).
Need scholarly articles (or a mix of popular and scholarly)? Academic Search Premier is a great starting point, or use the filters in WorldCat Discovery to limit to articles.
To find out more about the other individual databases, click on the link for Databases A-Z (NOT the drop-down - that only shows you the names) on the library home page:
From there, you can look for databases good for a specific subject area:
Or databases that have certain types of sources:
And browse the options, seeing descriptions that can be helpful in making your choice.
And finally - the other option is to reach out for help:
- email library@depauw.edu
- text 765.356.9171
- make an appointment with a librarian