This resource guide lists some of the key library databases and resources that should get you started with your research. Feel free to contact a reference librarian to set up a research consultation if you have any questions.
Research Tips:
keyword selection is critical! Make sure you include all possible keywords
keep a research log of the terms/searches, in case you find better keywords later and need to backtrack
consult with a librarian to determine the best database(s) for your topic area
get the materials you need EARLY, you can always work on your assignment later but
Search the online library catalog to find books at Babson and other WEBnet consortium libraries (Regis, Pine Manor, Olin).
Try the following subject searches to find if there are books about a topic of interest:
- keyword: food, aphrodisiac, famine - using boolean operators like "and" - try your search "food and aphrodisiac"
Stop by the Information Desk to request books from other WEBnet libraries or use your LIB number on your Babson OneCard and your PIN to place the book on Hold for yourself. It usually takes only a few days for us to get the book(s) for you. You will be notified by email when the book arrives.
The WorldCat database is a great place to find books that Babson may not own. Request items by clicking the ILL icon.
If you need more help - check out our Quick Tutorial on Finding Books.
Finding Articles & Essays
Advanced Searching: Using Boolean
If you need a refresher on using Boolean searching techniques we covered in class, check out the Human Database.
a real search example: (food* or chocolat* or oyster*) and (effect* or aphrodisiac*)
Try to create your own search:
Simple Search: _______________ and _____________________
Complex Search: ( ____________ or ____________ ) and (_____________ or _____________)
Use the following library databases to locate articles & essays on your topic.
Expanded Academic ASAP - Full text and abstracts of professional journals and magazines.
EbscoHost Academic - Contains full text and abstracts of magazines, newspapers, and journals. Use the SCHOLARLY ARTICLES tab to limit your search. Glean subject terms to expand your search.
JSTOR - Full text scholarly articles. Keep search terms simple in this database.
Not finding full text? You have a few simple steps to find the full article:
Online Journal Finder - to find out if the journal is available in full text format in another online database
Library Catalog- to find out if a journal title or a book is available at Babson
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) - as last resort, we can borrow the item for you - but give us a week or two
Having Trouble? Check out our Quick Tutorial on Finding Articles.
Contact the Information Desk at (781)239-4596 and we will help you track it down.
Web Sites about Food
Using search engines, such as Google.com can lead to some potentially useful resources, but make sure that you are using reputable resources, and evaluate what you find.
