Communication and Media

Interlibrary Loan (is your friend)

Contrary to what Google would have you believe, most information is not free. Rod Library pays a lot of money for the resources you access through our databases, unfortunately, budgets never go as far as we wish they would. If we do not have access to the material you need, our Interlibrary Loan staff will try to get it for you. 

In addition to filling out the form, many of our databases include "Find It" buttons.  

These buttons will sometimes open the article's full text from another product we subscribe to. However, if we do not have full-text access, they will take you to a library catalog (OneSearch) screen where you can "Request from ILLiad."

NOTE: You must sign in to your Rod Library account using your CatID to see this option in the library catalog.

Google Scholar (may or may not be)

Google Scholar is a wonderful tool for your toolbox, but like any other tool, it cannot be the only one you use. Use Google Scholar with eyes wide open and 

1. ensure you have "Library Links" for the University of Northern Iowa enabled to access more UNI-accessible PDFs.
2. consider using the "Advanced Search" options to narrow your search.
3. evaluate the results (including checking the credibility of the journal in which the article was published).
4. Use it IN ADDITION to other databases, not in replacement of them. 
5. do not pay for research! Utilize ILL or email your librarian for help.