Databases Uses: Resources for Research

Databases uses vary & can sometimes get confusing ... and even difficult. Do not fret and do not be discouraged. The Reference Point Enquiries Bank (http://rpe.nl.sg) by National Library Singapore aims to alleviate the pain of using their electronic resources.

Reference Point is a reference enquiry service ( (URL http://www.nl.sg/NLWEB.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=NL_ASK) provided by the National Library Singapore to patrons ... where they can ask for assistance with their information needs. Reference Point Enquiries Bank (RPE) showcases the answers to some of the commonly asked questions ... and shows us the list of printed and electronic resources that are useful.

The idea is that rather to just only benefit one patron ... they share the answer with everyone else, so we become aware of the useful print resources available, while also learn the use of electronic resources, like databases, eBooks, ejournals and more.

A typical RPE answer tells you:
- Brief bibliographical information about the printed resource; OR
- Brief coverage information about the electronic resource

- Call number of the printed resource so you can retrieve it from the physical shelve; OR
- Steps to access the electronic resources from the eResources website

- Annotation about the printed or electronic resources, e.g. what are the topics it covers and where it can be found, what are the useful results from the databases searches.