CrossSearch
CrossSearch is a new feature which allows you to search one or more of the Library's databases at one time. You can create your own list of resources to search, or use one of the Library's preselected search categories (called QuickSearch).
CrossSearch can be a efficient way of finding articles on a topic. However, it does have some drawbacks. CrossSearch does not work with all of the electronic resources available through the Library. As a result, by choosing CrossSearch, you may be limiting your search to only a selection of databases (some of which may not be the best for your particular topic). In addition, CrossSearch only provides the most basic search options. Most native interfaces for databases are optimized for their specific users. Limits, thesaurus searching, or other search features are not available in CrossSearch.
QuickSearch
The Library provides six CrossSearch "Quick Sets" for its users. The default setting is "General", which searches our major multidisciplinary databases. There are additional sets for Business, Law, Science, Library Catalogs, and Encyclopedias/Dictionaries.
You can quickly access these Quick Sets by going to the search box near the top of the screen on the Library's Web site. Just select "Search CrossSearch," and chose the set you would like to search. Then enter your search terms and select "Go." Viewing Your QuickSearch Results.
Creating Your Own Set of Resources
To create a group of databases for CrossSearch, go to the section appearing on the left side of your screen which says Identify database.
Select the subject you are interested in, and you will retrieve a list of resources available from the Library. Browse through the list and you will notice that some resources have a check-box which appears to the left of the database name. These databases work with the CrossSearch feature.
To begin your CrossSearch, select the resources you would like to search and then enter your search terms. Click "Go" to complete your search and retrieve a listing of results.
The default is Simple Search, but there is also an Advanced Search feature available which will allow you to conduct searches on specific fields, such as Subject, Title, or Author.
