How do I search the Rasmussen Online Library to find articles and eBooks?
How do I find an appropriate library database, create a search, and manage search results?
Answer
Finding articles and ebooks in the Rasmussen Online Library is similar to using a search engine like Google, but there are some key differences that you should keep in mind when conducting a database search.
Step 1: Develop a list of Key Words that describe your topic
- Take a few moments to write a sentence or two about what you want to cover in your paper.
- Circle or underline the key words in your description
Example: Cell phone use while driving contributes to car accidents
TIP: Entering long phrases, sentences, and questions into a database search text box will not provide relevant results.
Step 2: Create a search statement using Boolean Connectors
- OR connector is used to include synonyms or related terms
- AND connector is used to link related concepts
Example: ("cell phones" or texting) and ("car accidents" or fatalities)
This search will produce a list of articles that include either the term cell phone OR the term texting AND either the term accidents OR fatalities in the SAME article.
TIP: Enclose search terms that are more than one word with quotation marks to keep those words together in your search.
TIP: Watch this short video about how to create a search statement.
Step 3: Identify an appropriate library database
- Select a database from the A-Z Database list by clicking on the database title, then log in with your Rasmussen student email and password.
TIP: Watch this short video that demonstrates how to find subject databases.
Step 4: Enter your search statement in the search text box and click Search
TIP: Use the Advanced Search option to use a worksheet with Boolean connectors already built in.
Example: 
- Click the Search button and a list of results will appear on the next page.
Step 5: Use Limiters to remove outdated or irrelevant resources
- Use the tools in the left column of the search results page to limit by publication date, language, geographic location, etc. as needed.
Step 6: Review the results list and click on the PDF or HTML links to view in full text
- Scroll through the results and click on the PDF or HTML links for the articles you would like to read.
Step 7 (Optional): Modify your search or try another database to find more results
Are you not finding what you are looking for? Try:
- A new search using different key words.
- A different database. Below are some suggestions by program:
Need more help? Submit a question to the Ask a Librarian service.
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