FREQUENT QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT DATABASES

Q:  WHAT IS AN ELECTRONIC DATABASE? 
A:  Electronic databases are special collections of thousands of magazines,
     scholarly journals, and books that you can search for information on your topic.  Many of
     them allow you to read and print the full-text articles.  Many also allow you to email
     favorite articles to your home email address to read at a later time.

Q:  WHY NOT JUST USE THE INTERNET?
A:  Much of what's out there on the internet is not trustworthy.  Starting your research using
     our databases will result in quality articles and information every time.  These are the
     sources your teacher wants to see in your bibliography, as opposed to random websites
     with questionable credentials.

Q:  ISN'T ALL THIS INFORMATION ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB ANYWAY?
A:  No, it isn't.  Many publishers, not to mention the authors of the articles and books
     themselves, have not given permission for their works to be available free on the web.  They
     have licensed their works to the electronic databases for a fee.  This is why Central Bucks
     must pay for subscriptions to the databases.  We think it's worth it because it's quality
     information you can't find on the world wide web. 

Q:  CAN I ACCESS THE DATABASES FROM HOME?
A:  Yes.  Our databases below can be accessed from home by using the passwords that appear
      on the E-notes page under "West Library".  While at school, passwords are not necessary. 

Q:  HOW DO I KNOW WHICH DATABASES ARE THE BEST TO USE FOR MY PROJECT?
A:  Ask Ms. Graney!  She's always happy to assist. 

C.B. WEST ELECTRONIC DATABASES for general and scholarly research.