How do I use Boolean operators in my database search?

Keyword searching allows you to combine search terms by using the Boolean Operators "and" and "or" which will either narrow or broaden your search.

    And: Use this operator between two or more search terms to narrow your search and to retrieve results that contain all of the search terms that you have entered in your search.

        Example: "dogs and cats" retrieves search results that contain both keywords together in the same item record.

    Or: Use this operator between two or more search terms to broaden your search and to retrieve results that contain all or one of the search terms that you have entered in your search.

        Example: "dogs or canines" retrieves item records that contain either both or one of the keywords, either together in the same item record or individually in different item records.

If you have questions about using Boolean Operators or database searching, visit the Reference/Information Desk on the Main Level of the Bertrand Library or use the help options from the ASK a Librarian Web pages.