Magnolia:
Scholarly Research with a Twist by Amy Lee- Branch Manager-
Brandon Public Library
At some point during our school years (as well as throughout
adulthood), we were required to at least one project that required extensive,
involved research on our part. Usually, this meant using at least one type of
database or online search engine. Today,
new resources and innovative technology are on the rise, racing to meet user demands. While research of all ages and ability levels is something that is not disappearing anytime soon, there
will, indeed, be a need for reliable resources with even more reliable and
up-to-date, accurate information. This
is where your local library can help!
With a CMRLS card, patrons have access to a variety of print and digital
resources, including Magnolia.
Magnolia is an online database that can be easily
accessed through Central Mississippi Regional Library System’s virtual
reference page. With Magnolia,
users can peruse a variety of scholarly books, journals, and/or journal
articles, and other materials, as well as create a unique research
experience. The familiar basic search
bar is available at the top of the EBSCOhost software page, but users can
perform an advanced search and choose one or more enhancing features, including
maps, photographs, type of publication, specific limiters, publication date(s),
number of pages, language, and more. Ebscohost
also offers additional information features, including Newspaper Source,
Business Source Complete, and Academic Search Premiere, further
assisting in tailoring to a user’s research needs.
Not only does Magnolia feature familiar, user-friendly
search features for its online database through EBSCOhost, but patrons also
have access to more specialized databases, which are tailored to specific
subject-based topics, as well as links to resources that are free to CMRLS
cardholders. For example, Magnolia
features a clean layout of links, including access to online reference tools,
including AutoRepair Source for cars, Novelist Plus online
reader’s advisory resource, and Flipster (e-magazines).
Additional resources that can be accessed through Magnolia’s
online database include Explora- a reference informational database designed
for Elementary and Middle School students.
Another helpful feature for businesses and organizations can be accessed
through Magnolia. Business Searching
Interface offers a large selection of articles and information relating to
major organizations and businesses.
Users can also view business profiles, including specific information
and marketing reports. Lastly, patrons
have access to up-to-date information in the medical field through various
articles, an index with A-to-Z information on common ailments and/or
conditions, as well as a database containing natural alternative treatments, and
medication listings with information on potential harmful drug interactions and
side effects. A translated feature is
also built in for the Spanish-speaking community.
Phew! This is a lot
of information to take in, but the good news is that it is organized by
Magnolia’s easy-to-use database and webpage layout. Also, feel free to stop by your local CMRLS
Library Branch, and our staff will be more than happy to assist you with
instruction or assistance with any type of information. It’s
one more reason libraries rock and are needed today more than ever!
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