While most library cards are issued within a few days, it is a good idea to get one before you start your project. If there is any waiting time, it won't interfere with your work or your deadlines. | GETTING ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FROM ONLINE SOURCES highly detailed information rather than the broad base of generalized knowledge that you can get from the websites listed previously. Many times university websites and private collections provide abstracts or a summary of articles on a particular topic as well as the material itself. In addition university websites often include a reference number that allows you to order the microfiche or printed version of an article available in their collection. Different Types of University Search Engines Like public libraries many universities subscribe to comprehensive search engines that contain vast amounts of information. Several of the most common search engines to which universities frequently subscribe are EBSCOhost a large database of full text articles with over 6 200 journals that are indexed and 5 000 journals in full text. Topics include the arts and sciences business health and newspapers. LexisNexis a search engine that offers full texts from magazine and newspaper articles addressing general news business and legal topics. The Periodicals Contents Index http an index that provides full texts from thousands of journals in the humanities and social sciences. ProQuest Direct Index http ProQuest. an index that provides full texts of journals and newspapers on all topics including business. In short you should have no trouble finding materials on your topic no matter what your topic or inquiry might be. Remember it always pays to ask a university or institutional staff member for his or her help and guidance. Each institution will have different resources and procedures but once again most staff members are eager to assist you and provide you with any tips that they can. Summary Using the Internet is a quick and easy method of gathering information. You can begin on your own and get a lot of material by simply typing your subject matter into one of the .