WPI George C. Gordon Library

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What is QuickFind?

Connect to QuickFind multi-database search

QuickFind is the name that we have given to our new library multi-database search engine that allows you to search up to 50 of our essential databases at the same time. The George C. Gordon Library subscribes to nearly 150 databases and until now researchers had to search them one-by-one. You can access QuickFind from the library web site and on our "Databases by Subject" web pages.

What are you searching?

From the search box on the library web site: Search across these 11 databases all at once to start your research: Blackwell, Compendex, Business Source Premier, Highwire, IEEE, JSTOR, Lexis Nexis Quick News Search, PubMed, ScienceDirect, WorldCat, and the WPI catalog.

From the advanced search on the library web site: You can select a category and/or a list of databases to search.

From the top of each "Databases by Subject" web page: An orange check mark in the database title list means it is included in the QuickFind search box. Please remember that there are other valuable databases in that subject area that are not in QuickFind. If you are not finding the information you want by searching QuickFind, you can search the other databases in your subject area individually.

When should you use QuickFind?

QuickFind, especially from the library's main web site, is a great way to start your research.
Use it to get a sense of what has been written on a particular topic.

When should you not use QuickFind?

When you know you need to use a specific database.
When you are doing a very narrowly tailored search for a specific type of resource or document.

Why are you getting an error message when searching QuickFind?

If you are off-campus, you will need to use the WPI proxy server to access the resources in QuickFind. Use these directions for setting up the proxy server on your computer.
Do not use quotations when you are searching from the Databases by Subject webpage. Using quotes will result in an error message.

Can you search all 50 databases at once?

Yes you can, but we do not recommend it. Searching all 50 at once slows down response time, and it is likely that such a broad search would produce extraneous results. We have set up many different subject areas with relevant databases to assist you with your searching.

Will QuickFind solve all of your research needs?

No. QuickFind is a great tool for helping you find information quickly, but there is a lot more out there. Think of it as a starting point, not a destination.

What is WebFeat?

WebFeat is the name of the company that created the multi-database search engine that we have branded QuickFind for the WPI user community.

QuickFind Questions and Answers

Please contact library staff and we’ll happily assist you.

Why doesn't QuickFIND work so fast for me?

QuickFIND works more quickly if you choose fewer subject categories.

Why don't any results for me when I enter a search?

If you type in a multiple terms from the main library home page, it's a forced phrase search. Try the Advanced screen and break up your keywords.

Maintained by lib-webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: Dec 19, 2007, 16:50 EST