Frequently Asked Questions
What is UDLib/SEARCH?
UDLib/SEARCH is a partnership between the University of Delaware Library and the State of Delaware Department of Education to provide access to networked electronic resources and training for all Delaware public and charter schools. UDLib/SEARCH databases include full-text online encyclopedias and full-text magazines/journals databases.
When did the UDLib/SEARCH program begin?
The UDLib/SEARCH program began on July 1, 1997. The program provided database access and training to all Delaware public high schools. Funding was continued and increased to extend access to all Delaware public middle schools on July 1, 1998. The state of Delaware increased the funding in the 2005/2006 budget for the Department of Education to expand UDLib/SEARCH to all public Delaware elementary schools.
Where are the UDLib/SEARCH databases accessible?
The UDLib/SEARCH databases are available at all computers connected to the Internet via the state network: classrooms, libraries, computer labs and offices in all Delaware public and charter schools. This includes all district offices and the Delaware Department of Education.
Can I access the UDLib/SEARCH databases from home?
Yes, UDLib/SEARCH databases can be accessed at home. Refer to the information on the Home Access Page for instructions. Your school librarian should be able to provide database log in credentials to students, parents, educators, and administrators.
Do I need special software to use the UDLib/SEARCH databases?
Yes. Each computer should have a Web browser installed, e.g. Chrome, Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Safari. Adobe Acrobat should also be installed for use in viewing many of the files retrieved through the databases.
Can students print the articles found in the UDLib/SEARCH databases?
Yes. Students are able to print the articles using the printer connected to that computer.
Will I always see the full article in each of the UDLib/SEARCH databases, or are there instances in which I will only see the citation of an article?
That depends on which database you are using. For example, all magazines and journals found in SIRS Issues Researcher are full text, while in In Context: High School, some are full text and some have just abstracts or citations. The two online encyclopedias, Britannica Online and World Book Online, are entirely full text.
If I am only able to view a citation, and I can’t view the actual text of an article, how can I obtain the article?
Check with your school librarian.
If I am not affiliated with a Delaware public school can I get access to the databases?
State funded access to the UDLib/SEARCH databases is available only to Delaware public and charter schools. UDLib/SEARCH databases are licensed, and the license agreement identifies who has access to these resources.
Private schools physically located within the state of Delaware may participate in UDLib/SEARCH for an annual fee. For more information, contact Erin Daix at daix@udel.edu.
If my school is having problems getting into the databases, whom should I contact?
If you experience any access issues or other problems with any of the UDLib/SEARCH databases, contact the UDLib/SEARCH staff at udlib-staff@udel.edu. They can walk you through trouble-shooting options and contact the appropriate database vendors as needed.
Whom should I contact about training for educators and school administrators?
Those interested in scheduling a training for elementary, middle, or high school educators should send an email to udlib-staff@udel.edu with details about your request. The UDLib/SEARCH Training Coordinator provides training for all educators and school administrators within Delaware public schools. Training sessions may include speaking at teacher in-service days, small group presentations, staff meetings, and individual training sessions with teachers, librarians or administrators.