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MSU MEMO

March 25, 2002    Volume 26, Issue 30

DataBasics
By Kerry Smith
MSU Libraries

University Libraries staffers have created several online tutorials that explain how to use specific databases and other online resources they provide. Some of the tutorials support library workshops and seminars, so those whose schedules do not permit them to attend may still acquire the information. We encourage all MSU faculty, staff, and students to make use of the tutorials, and our users' feedback is always welcome.

Accessing the Libraries' Electronic Journals
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/ejournals/
The tutorial leads users through the three main access points for the electronic journal subscriptions.

Better Living (and Research) Through Citation Databases
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/citation/
Traditionally, citation indexes have been large multi-volume print publications, but faculty, staff, and students can now access Science Citation Index and Social Sciences Citation Index via the libraries' Web site. The tutorial explains all.

Finding the Full Text: E-Journals, Databases, and Beyond
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/fulltext/
The tutorial defines and explains the relationship between e-journals and databases, and shows users how they can find available full text for journals and magazines.

Good Citations: Citing Electronic Sources
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/goodcitations/
The tutorial assists users with citing electronic resources in the "big three" styles (APA, Chicago, MLA) and outlines the changes in APA style with the recent upgrade from the fourth to the fifth edition.

How to Use Your Library
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/htuyl/
"How to Use Your Library" helps users get acquainted with the services and resources the libraries offer. This includes a brief tour of the libraries' Web site, tips for constructing a search strategy for databases and information about the types of services the libraries provide to make research easier.

Introduction to Legal Research Using Lexis-Nexis
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/lexisnexis/
Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe provides full text access to a variety of legal research materials including law review articles, federal regulations, Canadian and European Union legislation, patents and career information. The tutorial focuses on the process of retrieving federal and state statutes, and case law.

London, Moscow, Beijing, and Beyond -
Searching Library Holdings Around the World
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/worldcat/
This tutorial offers instructions for searching WorldCat and describes the types of information it provides.

Online Catalog Tutorial - Trekking through Galaxy
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/trekking/
The Galaxy Online Catalog is a window into the world of materials the libraries own. The tutorial walks users through the myriad of ways they can search for materials in the online catalog.

That Cheating Heart: Keeping Plagiarism Out of Your Classroom
http://library.msstate.edu/li/tutorial/plagiarism/
Plagiarism is an ongoing problem for educators. The tutorial includes resources that cover many facets of plagiarism, including its forms, how to construct effective assignments, how to help students avoid plagiarism, what to look for if plagiarism is suspected, and electronic resources available for detection.

Due to licensing restrictions, the use of most library databases is limited to individuals affiliated with Mississippi State. For proper functionality, most databases must be accessed via the library's Web site at http://library.msstate.edu. If access is denied, users should contact the MSU Libraries Systems Department at 325-2842 or systems@library.msstate.edu, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. After 5 p.m., users can contact the Reference Department at 325-7667 or reference@library.msstate.edu.