Schedule an individual research appointment with one of our librarians. These can be in person or online. We would be happy to assist you with your research. Click the link below to book a research appointment!
Q: Other than looking different, what has changed with the new page?
A: We've made a lot of functional updates to the database page that should make your research process much smoother. The databases can be searched directly by name, and can be filtered by area of study, the specific types of material within them, and/or by access type. The boxes in the sidebar will direct you to our most-recommended (and most-used) databases, as well as highlight any new or trial databases to explore. Additionally, the menu header provides quick access to our other online resources for a more seamless experience.
Q: Why don't I have to log into my UMary account anymore when I go to the page?
A: Previously, you needed to log into your UMary account before you even saw the database list, and then after that point you could access any of the databases without needing to log in a second time. However, not all of these databases would have required you to log in in the first place (such as Britannica Online), because they are free to the public. The new page will not ask you to log into your account until you click on a database that UMary specifically subscribes to.
Q: Will I have to log into my UMary account for every database I visit?
A: No! After you log into your UMary account to view one database, all other databases will be "unlocked" for the rest of that browsing session. You will still need to log in at least once per session (usually every couple of hours or after your computer has been idle), but you should not have to log in for more than one database in a row.
Q: How long will the original (legacy) database page still be up?
A: We know changing the research flow can be frustrating, especially for graduating seniors who just want to survive until finals, so we are leaving the legacy database page live through the end of the Spring 2025 semester. We hope this gives everyone enough time to get used to the new interface before the old one is retired officially.
Q: What are the "Access Modes" on the search bar?
A: As mentioned above, not all of our databases require a UMary account to view them, as some are public access sites from government or nonprofit sources. This filter allows alumni or other members of the public to quickly find the sources they have access to without a UMary account.