Q. How do I get an article that is not available in full-text format through a library database?

When searching in the library's databases, you will often find PDF or HTML full-text links for journal, magazine, or newspaper articles. However, sometimes a database will only provide the citation (author, title of article, journal name, volume number, issue number, date of publication, and page numbers) or abstract (summary of article content) for an article you might want to read. Follow the steps listed below to determine whether or not the article is available in full-text format through another database.

First, check to see if the article record includes a "Full Text Finder" button (or perhaps a link labeled with words similar to "Click Here to Check for Full Text Access"). If yes, then follow these steps:

• Click the "Full Text Finder" button (or "Click Here to Check for Full Text Access" link) to check the Periodicals A-Z list for availability of full text for that specific article in Kean's other library databases.
• Hopefully the "Full Text Finder" link will automatically prompt another browser window to open and lead you directly to the article you want. (Please note: If the process stalls, you may need to click the open page in a new window link, which is typically available toward the top of the screen.)

If the article record does not include a "Full Text Finder" button or if you determine that the library does not subscribe to the periodical or does not have the date (issue) you need, then follow the steps listed below to request a copy of the article through Interlibrary Loan. This is a free service!

• Open another browser window on your computer, and go to the Nancy Thompson Learning Commons home page.
• Click the Library Services link toward the top of the screen, then click Interlibrary Loan. 
• Click Kean University Learning Commons Interlibrary Loan Form.
• Fill out the form, then click Submit at the bottom of the form.

The Nancy Thompson Learning Commons will try to obtain the article for you from another library (at no cost to you). A copy of the article will be emailed to you.