Library Databases: DISCUS

On 12.15.2011, I mentioned that Librarians like to choose "Best" materials for lists. On December 7th, the Library Journal posted an article entitled "Best Databases 2011." Beaufort County Library provides several of the highlighted databases for our customers. Among the "best databases" chosen were Biography in Context; Gale Virtual Reference Library; and Encyclopedia Britannica. These three databases are part of a much larger database of databases called DISCUS that you can get to from our website.

Go to the Library's homepage (www.beaufortcountylibrary.org), choose the 2nd blue tab "Online Research" then choose "Research Resources." You'll find entry points to 8 other subscription databases (some with multiple databases ) there. (The direct point of access to the "Research Resources" page is http://www.beaufortcountylibrary.org/htdocs-sirsi/db.htm.)

Let's start with the largest database in scope and content, that is, DISCUS. DISCUS like ALE is a database of databases. (This is important to remember because you will see this again!)

DISCUS (short for Digital Information for South Carolina USers) provides free access to an electronic library of made up of a core collection of high quality online resources that support education, enhance economic development and improve the quality of life for all South Carolinians. DISCUS is available 24/7 through school, college and public libraries. DISCUS ensures equal access to information and learning resources regardless of race or socio-economic status - a crucial philosophical and professional tenet of librarianship.

The DISCUS database provides a variety of organized resources for individuals of all ages, educational levels and interests. The databases include librarian-vetted:

• magazines
• professional journals
• newspapers
• encyclopedias
• e-books
• reference material
• student and teacher resources
• maps
• pictures
• recommended Web links
• multimedia
• and much more!

DISCUS resources use the Internet merely as a delivery tool to provide accurate information from recognized publishers focusing on high-quality publications and documents that are updated regularly and organized so you can quickly find the information you need. It is highly doubtful that you would discover these resources through an open web search.

Google, Yahoo, Firefox and other Internet search engines are designed to search the open Web. When searching with Google or other Internet search engines,you’re likely to retrieve lots of irrelevant, commercial and possibly poor-quality results. (Personal note: I tend to find what I'm looking for on the 3rd or 4th page of results when doing an open Web search for websites - as when I find something to put in one of the "Local History Treasures Brought to You by the Beaufort District Collection." DISCUS makes looking for solid and reliable and permanent links to information on some topics and products much easier to find.)

Customers need a valid public library card to access the DISCUS database from home or from your office. (You can use DISCUS at will within our library buildings). You'll need to stop by one of our branch libraries to pick up the flyer with the password for home or office access. Because this database is paid for by the State of South Carolina on behalf of citizens of this state and its public libraries, we cannot share the password for external access over the web.

Want a little help before you take off on your own?
Each month the State Library offers a one-hour webinar titled "New to DISCUS? Start Here!" that explains the program and provides an opportunity for Q&A.

Never participated in a webinar? Just read the State Library's Online Training FAQs to learn how easy it is. Information about DISCUS training is found on the Training Tab of our website. Take advantage of some free training in 2012! Next class is January 11th, 2012.