Accessing Research Databases from Home computers

Accessing Research Databases from Home Computers
by Joan Hamilton

Pierce School students learn as early as third grade how to access databases that will help them do research. Using the Pierce Library Catalog, students can easily find full text articles from over seventy-five Children's magazines and reference sources, using such Infotrac databases as Kids Infobits (grades k - 5) and Junior Edition (middle school). Many are aware that these same databases can be used from home IF one has a Brookline Public Library card; however, exactly how to tap into these superb reference sources from home seems to remain a mystery for many. Following are easy steps for all to follow:

1. Get a Library Card. Cards are free when you sign up for the first time, and cost only one dollar ($1.00) to replace.

2. Using a web browser, go to the Brookline Public Library website.

3. In the upper right hand corner, click on Online Services.

4. There you will find a list of the online databases available to those who have a library card.

5. Scroll down to Kids Infobits. Next you will get a screen that asks you to type in your 14-digit library card number.

6. After your card number is entered, you will get another screen. Scroll down to Magazines for k-12 students. Choose Kids Infobits. You may get a screen that says Infotrac-Proceed. Click on Proceed, and you should finally get to the database.

7. Articles are from reference books, magazines, and newspapers. They are usually full text and can be printed or e-mailed.

8. Other databases that may be useful are Junior Edition and Worldbook Online.