Searching a library catalog or database does not always follow the same method as Google or other search engines. You will get the best results on InfoHawk+ if you search using subject headings from the Library of Congress. But how do you find them? Scrolling down in an item's record in InfoHawk+ will typically show the subject headings used and can provide search clues. Some useful subject term examples and formats for research are listed below.
Fans (persons)
Fandom -- United States
Fan fiction -- history and criticism
Subculture -- United States
Mass media and culture -- United States
Sports -- social aspects
Popular culture -- psychological aspects
Potter, Harry (Fictitious character)
Supernatural (Television program : 2005-2019)
Follow the format listed, even if the subject isn't what you want. For example, if you want Korean fandoms, you would search for Fandom -- Korea or maybe you are interested in Fan fiction -- social aspects instead of Fan fiction -- history and criticism.
Likewise, if you aren't researching the samples above, follow the format and enter your subject. Replace Supernatural and its dates with Game of Thrones (Television program). You aren't required to include the dates, but the general format will remain the same.
Not everyone has heard of Boolean searching...but you may have already performed these types of searches! Here's the quick overview:
What is Boolean?
Boolean logic gets its name from British mathematician George Boole (1815-1864). He devised a symbolic logic method that focused mainly on the operators AND, OR, and NOT. This logic method has been applied to information organization.
Why Boolean?
Using Boolean search operators can lead to more precise results.
How does a Boolean search work?
Reading a scholarly article can be a little intimidating! They follow a unique format and can be quite lengthy. Use this guide to help get a quick understanding of the article before you invest your time in reading the entire piece.
Source: ESL Undergraduate Student Guide, Undergraduate Library, University of Illinois