ArticlesMany (but not all) databases allow subject searching. A subject search is more specific than a keyword search: it looks in only one field of each record - the subject field.
Subject searching uses specific terms, known as subject headings, that describe the content of the document (book, article, video, map, etc.). The subject headings come from a predetermined list of possible terms known as the database's thesaurus. The linking between the subject headings and the documents in the database is known as the subject indexing.
Many databases use subject headings that are unique to that particular database. This controlled vocabulary allows for consistency of subject terms across the database. Most databases that use subject indexing provide a way to search the thesaurus. In the thesaurus, subjects are often listed with broader, narrower, or related subjects. Using the database's thesaurus will help you identify most effective search terms.
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For most databases you will log in using your Patriot Port login, which for students is the same as your Moodle login.
For the few databases that require a different login that information is posted in Moodle in the Library Resources block under "Database Passwords."
If you are a current student or employee of the College who does not use Moodle, email your FULL NAME and DATE OF BIRTH to:
nclivepassword [at] isothermal [dot] edu
If you have problems during normal library hours call 828-395-1307.
After hours use the Library Chat.
For help on researching a topic, see Tips for Efficient Research
