Library Search is a good place to start if you don’t know the relevant discipline or if your topic is interdisciplinary. Subject-specific databases are focused search tools with more filters and limiters specific to a discipline. You can search for articles by title or topic.
If you know the title of the article, the best way to find it is with Library Search. If you get too many results, add the author name.
If you can't find the article, try:
Search with keywords in Library Search or in databases. Unlike internet searching, use only the main terms.
Use quotation marks around a phrase to find results that only have those words appearing right next to each other (example: "earth rotation"). This gives you fewer, more relevant results.
For more relevant and focused results, learn how to improve your search results or search with subject terms in a disciplinary database.
In Library Search, look for the Read Article, Download PDF, or Available Online link. Or in the View Online section, select any database name as any option should work.
In database records, look for a link to the Full Text, a PDF, or HTML. If a database does not have full text, select “Other SMU Options” to see if we have it in another database or in a print journal. If we don’t, sign in to your account and click “Request from Another Institution” to borrow it through Interlibrary Loan.
Not all articles are available digitally. Articles may be in print journals or on microfilm. Find the library location of print and microfilm in the Library Search record under “Get It." Click the location to find the dates that are available. Journals are usually arranged alphabetically on the shelf.
Some journals are only available to use in the library and can’t be checked out. The record will note that it is “limited access” or “non-circulating”. You may need to ask at the holding library’s desk. Special Collections often require an appointment to see materials.
