Skip to Main Content
Libraries
askus Ask us
 

UVic Library Search Help

Tips for using the Library Search interface at the University of Victoria Libraries.

Basic Search

Basic Search is a simple interface that allows you to enter and search any word or phrase, similar to a Google search. Head to the library homepage and use the search box to conduct a basic search.

Circles the Basic Search search box, found at the top of the screen

On the right side of the search bar, a drop-down menu is available that allows you to select the kind of search you prefer. These options are as follows:

Circles the Basic Search drop-down options menu,

Choose the option that best reflects your research or information need. 

Search Everything Select this option for results that include articles, books, and other materials owned or licensed by UVic.
Books & Media Select this option for results that exclude articles. This option narrows your results.

Entering Key Terms

The search you enter can be very simple, without using any expert techniques.

A screenshot of the Basic Search search bar, with the key term "Stonewall riots" typed in

If you are a more experienced researcher, Basic Search also allows you to use search operators that broaden or narrow your results.

Screenshot of the Basic Search search box with the following query inputted: "Stonewall riots" AND "Marsha P Johnson"

If you would like to learn more about using "search operators" to improve your results, visit the Advanced Search page of this guide or book a consultation with a librarian.

If you would like additional options to help you narrow your search to the most relevant results, select Advanced Search.

A screenshot that points to the Advanced Search link on the Library Search homepage, found on the right of the search bar

Creative Commons License
This work by The University of Victoria Libraries is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License unless otherwise indicated when material has been used from other sources.