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Library Research Guides

ENGWR 300 - Professor Shapiro (Spring 2024): Getting Started

Databases for Background Research

How to Use the Databases on This Page?

  • Start by watching each of the database videos below, and then practice applying what you learned as you explore each of the databases.
  • Use 1-3 keywords that are related to your topic to see what kind of background information you can discover.

These databases are great resources to start with to gather some background information on your topic.  You'll start digging deeper into your topic on the OneSearch tab.


EXAMPLE TOPIC: The people of Flint who were exposed to toxic water during the water crisis did not receive justice.  

Example Searches

Good: flint water 

Good: flint water crisis

Not so good: people water crisis flint justice

How to Use the Databases on this Page

Starting Points from the Library

Here is a short list of resources from the library that will give you background information on topics related to climate change. These will help you get more familiar with your topic which will be helpful when you start digging deeper into your research.

Starting Points from Government Websites

Here are some possible starting points from government websites sites (.gov). 

The National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA) and The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have a ton of online resources related to climate change. If these articles are not of interest, try running a few searches on these websites to see if you can find something relevant to your topic.