Database Tips and Tricks
If you are searching for a topic within a specific subject discipline, be sure you are using the appropriate database. Databases are not created equal, and sometimes your search strategies can make a big difference. Use the 'Help' files at the top of the screen or ask a Librarian to maximize your results.
Searching Keywords and Phrases
Using keywords and phrases helps you to accurately and efficiently search for information whether you are searching in a library database or in Google/Google Scholar. You'll want to use 2-3 keywords that are related to your topic in order to find the best information. Below are some examples, but you can always ask a librarian to help you come up with keywords in order to scope your search appropriately.
- income inequality and guaranteed basic income
- homelessness and trauma and policy
- social work and community engagement or community programs
- digital technology and social isolation
- decarceration and United States policy and abolition
Best Bets: Social Work
- Child Development & Adolescent Studies This link opens in a new window
Book reviews and abstracts from technical reports, books, book chapters, and theses and dissertations relating to growth and development through age 21. - Women & Social Movements in the United States, 1600-2000 This link opens in a new window
Primary sources and supporting materials regarding the published histories and records of women's reform organizations in the US between the 17th and 20th centuries. - Black Thought & Culture
Non-fiction writings by major American black leaders, covering 250 years of history. Includes previously inaccessible material, including letters, speeches, prefatory essays, political leaflets, interviews, periodicals, and trial transcripts
Online Academic Journals
Full-text contents of the following scholarly, peer reviewed journals are available. Click the title to view.
Other journals can be found by using and search for "social work."