Human Services

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Searching in a library database is different from searching on the open web.

To get the best results in library databases, think of the most important concepts in your search, then separate them with an "and" in the search box.

For example, if you are researching a paper about how ADHD is diagnosed the search Attention Deficit Disorder and Diagnosis  will bring more results than a phrase like "diagnosing attention deficit disorder".

Try experimenting with other terms to find more books or articles. For example, if you are researching Attention Deficit Disorder, try alternate words such as ADHD  and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in your search to get more or different hits. To get even more hits, use the word "or". The search ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder combines the results to give you a list of all the items with either key word.To better focus your search, add another term: for example and Diagnosis.

Google Scholar allows you to search for scholarly articles using the familiar Google search box, and the techniques you are used to using in a Google search. Google Scholar is a resource worth trying if you find the information you need using the library databases. Unfortunately, some of the scholarly articles you will find using Google Scholar are not available in full-text or are not free.  

Hit a paywall? One disadvantage to Google Scholar is that not everything is freely available. You may be asked to pay money in order to view the article. Before you pay any money:

1. Ask a librarian for help. 
2. Fill out an interlibrary loan request and we will try to get the article from another library.
3. Use Full-Text Finder to search for the title of the journal, magazine, or newspaper that published the article to find out if NECC databases provide the full-text.
4. Check the holdings of Boston Public Library. Anyone who lives, works, or attends college in Massachusetts can get an electronic library card and access to all the BPL's electronic holdings.