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FINDING ARTICLES

What Exactly is a Periodical?

Periodicals are items that are published periodically. Newspapers, journals and magazines are collectively known as periodicals.

Academic/Scholarly Journals VS. Magazines

Academic/Scholarly Journal Magazine
Appearance Little or no advertisements. May contain graphs, charts and illustrations Eye catching, many advertisements and photos
Audience Professional and students General public
Authorship Written by an expert in that particular field Generalist, editorial staff, freelance writers
Format of Article Lengthy article, often begins with an abstract Short and simple
Language Special terminology and language of the discipline Easy to read
Publisher Association, institute or scholarly publisher Commercial or professional organization
Purpose Report the latest research information Report current events and general information
Sources Always includes references, footnotes or bibliographies Rarely cites sources
Examples Harvard Business Review, Journal of Education Times, Newsweek, Parents, Fitness

Electronic Based

We have a variety of electronic journal and magazine articles available on and off campus. Search the Full Text Journal Directory on the Library homepage to discover which we have access to.

Paper Based

Search for titles using the library catalog’s periodical title search or browse our periodical stacks.

Most current year periodicals are located in paper format on the open shelves across the circulation desk, on the main floor. Older paper issues are kept behind the circulation desk. To access the older issues, on must fill out a ‘green’ periodical request card and leave your OCC photo ID at the circulation desk, while you use the periodical.

Note: Periodicals do not circulate.

Photocopier machines are located across the circulation and reference desk, and on the 2nd floor. Copies are 10cents per page.
Microforms are available in the Microform Room (L103). Copies are 10cents per page. Assistance is available at the circulation desk.
Many articles are available on and off campus via the Internet.

Other Sources

If the library does not have the book that you need for your research paper, you can request the book via InterLibrary Loan. Please provide approximately 2 weeks for this service. Forms can be picked up at the circulation desk or completed online. For questions on InterLibrary Loan services, please call the circulation desk at (732)255-0392.

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