Research FAQs

  • General Questions

    A database is a paid-subscription resource that you can't use unless you pay for a personal subscription or have access to it through an organization like your university, school or public library. It often includes digital versions of print journals, magazines and reference books. Websites are free resources and need to be evaluated for reliability/trustworthiness before being used as a resource for research. 

    Most of the database vendors have provided video tutorials or other support tools. When available, we have linked those on the listing for that resource on our website. Please visit the A-Z Resources page, click on the title of the resource.  The tutorial for that resource is displayed when available. contact HCPL’s Ask Us service for additional assistance .

    Academic editions are usually written with an academic (university level) or professional reader in mind, so it might use language that is not as easily understood by somebody not studying or working in that field. Consumer editions, often found in health-related resources, are typically written with the everyday person in mind and uses language that is easier to understand for those outside the field. 

    Full-text means the entire article is available through the database rather than just an abstract or bibliographic listing. You can usually tell that it's available in full text from listings within your database search results. It should say "HTML Full Text" or "PDF Full Text" or some combination of those. You can also choose to limit your search to only articles available as full-text. 

    If an article is not available in full text (it may say “Check Article Linker for more information”), and you would still like to read it, you can contact us to request the article. Please include the article title, author, journal name, and issue. Staff will locate and request the article for you.

    Remote access means access from outside the library – at home or at work – with your library card number. 

    Ancestry Library Edition does not allow remote access (access from home), so you would have to come to the library to use that database, either on one of the library's computers or on your own laptop or tablet using the library's WiFi. 

    HCPL provides free access to databases for our library customers.  If you’re using a computer in one of our locations you do not need to enter a library card number. Most of our databases can also be used at home, so entering your library card number proves that you are an HCPL card holder. Click on the unique link for that resource on our website and in most cases you'll then be asked to enter your library card number and PIN.  

    TexShare is a consortium of Texas libraries that share print and electronic materials, purchase online resources, and combine staff expertise. You can learn more about the TexShare program.