FirstSearch is a web-based information system for searching online databases.  A database is a collection of related resources on a specific topic or from a specific source.  Each entry is a database is called a record.

This screen allows you to search the main indexes in a database.  Use the Basic Search if you are new to online searching or if you need quick results using a simple search statement.

This screen lets you construct more complex search statements.  Up to three strings and three indexes can be combined using Boolean operators (AND, OR, and NOT) selected from drop-down menus.  More search limits are available at this level.

This screen is designed for experienced searchers who prefer to enter logical search screens.  This reference information on constructing a search is displayed at the bottom of the screen.  A list of indexes and index labels is provided in a single drop-down menu.

For example, to search for all resources related to coffee that are written by Elizabeth Alston, you can enter alston elizabeth and kw:coffee and select the author index from the drop-down menu.  The author index will apply only to the unlabeled terms alston elizabeth.