Databases are subject focused tools to help you find sources from publications such as academic journals, newspapers and magazines.  Stanford provides access to 3000+ databases.  Find more information on using databases in the Searching articles using databases guide.

Subject librarians are very knowledgeable about information in their specific field and can help when you are having difficulties finding sources in your research.  To find the subject librarian for your field, go to the Subjects A-Z page on the library website and click on your field.  You will find contact information for the subject librarian there as well as links to some subject relevant guides, databases and other sources.

Guides (like the one you are reading now) are written by subject librarians and other library staff to provide clear, concise information on researching various subjects and using library services.

If you find that you need help in accessing, creating or manipulating large data sets the libraries can help with  various library data services.  From identifying the appropriate data set to preserving and publishing your work, data services can help you with each stage of your research life cycle.

Don't worry, we can usually help you get it.  There are two ways to do this:

1.  Interlibrary loan

Interlibrary Loan asks to borrow items from other libraries. Go to the Interlibrary Loan page and click on the Place an ILL Request button to request print materials or scans of chapters/articles. You will receive an email once your print materials arrive, or a link to download the chapter/article PDFs you have requested.

2.   Ask us to buy it

You can also ask that the library purchase what you're looking for. Go to the Contact Us page, scroll down to the Suggest a Purchase box and follow the link to the form. If the library decides to purchase your requested material, a librarian will let you know as soon as it arrives.