Library 101 - Your Guide to Library Resources

Select Resources - Articles

Activity 3b: Find Sources-Periodical Articles

Finding articles from periodicals at UTSA Library

What Are Periodicals?
A periodical is a publication with a unique title that is issued during various intervals (weekly, monthly, quarterly). There are three main types of periodicals: magazines, journals, and newspapers.

Why Use Articles In Magazines, Journals, And Newspapers?
Articles found in periodicals have the advantage of providing timely information. Articles serve to highlight very specific aspects of a research topic, whereas books provide more in-depth information.

Where Do I Find Periodical Articles On My Topic?
Tools called "databases" help you locate articles published in magazines, journals and newspapers. The Library subscribes to almost 300 databases via the Internet.

Does UTSA Library Own All The Periodicals Covered In The Print/electronic Indexes?
Unfortunately, no we do not. UTSA Library subscribes to about 2,500 periodicals in print and about 30,000 electronically. That's only a fraction of the number of periodicals published world wide. Always check E-Journal Locator to see if we subscribe to a periodical electronically and UCAT to see if we own the print or microform version.

What If I Really Need An Article The UTSA Library Doesn't Own?
You have several options. Using WorldCat, you can check to see if another local library subscribes to the periodical and go there in person. You can also complete an Interlibrary Loan form online or get a printed form from the Circulation Desk. Interlibrary Loan will attempt to get the article from another library in the U.S.

How can I tell the difference between a magazine, journal, and newspaper? Take a look at this handout: Scholarly v. Popular