 What are the library databases and which one should I use? One of the greatest resources the library has to offer is its database collection. In fact, that raises an important question. What exactly is a library database anyway and how do you use one? Fortunately, it's nothing like this. A library database is an online collection filled with academic information from loads of different sources such as periodicals like magazines and newspapers or reference sources like books or even videos and music. And all of these resources have been paid for by the library so they're available to you free of charge. But all that great information isn't just crammed into one database. Libraries have lots of databases, each one focused on a particular subject like psychology, art history or English, all of which offer articles filled with valuable information. Articles that are easily searchable and organized by subject and best of all, you can focus your search on sources that are verified and peer reviewed. And if you still can't track down that perfect article, don't worry, there's somebody at the library who's fully trained and ready to help. So together you'll find just what you need.