Search Tips for OneSearch: Overview
What is OneSearch?
OneSearch is a type of database known as an integrated library management system. All CSU libraries use OneSearch.
What does it do?
It allows you search for all types of library materials from articles to books to audio visual equipment. It is not the only database at this library (see the list of all our databases).
Where can I find it?
Front and center on the first page of the Pfau Library's website.
Why should I sign in when I'm using OneSearch?
Because signing in (My Library Account; normal MyCoyote login) unlocks very useful features that allow you to see loan periods (how long you get to keep what you check out); save search results; see a list of what you have checked out with due dates; request items for locker pickup; and more. Our guide to My Library Account will show you what it can do.
How do I sign in?
After running a search, simply click on the Sign in link in the top toolbar (shown below).
DETAILS OF THE BASIC SEARCH AND THE ADVANCED SEARCH
The basic search is usually your best starting point, therefore, all instructions in this Library Guide are written for the basic search.
OneSearch's basic search. Notice the Advanced Search and Search Tips (this Library Guide) links under the search box.
As soon as you begin typing in a search, a drop down menu of search options appears:
Everything
The default option searches most of the Pfau Library's databases at once for articles (scholarly journal, magazine, newspaper, etc.), books (print and ebooks), and media (streaming, DVD, CD, etc.), plus print books and media from every CSU library. Unless you have a very specific search, the number of results can be overwhelming.
Articles
This option searches most of the Pfau Library's databases at once for articles (scholarly journal, magazine, newspaper, etc.) and other types of publications (conference proceedings, reports, dissertations, etc.). Again, unless you have a very specific search, the number of results can be overwhelming.
Books & Media (CSUSB)
This option searches for books (print and ebooks), media (streaming, DVD, CD, etc.), and more held by the CSUSB libraries.
Books & Media (All CSU)
This option searches for print books and media from every CSU library. NOTE: When using this search option, if you are signed in to My Library Account, you can request print books and media from other CSU libraries via our CSU+ service.
Course Reserves
This option searches for current CSUSB textbooks (print and ebooks).
The advanced search can help you build a more precise search.
1. The same search options as in the basic search appear at the top of the advanced search. Click a button to choose one.
2. The Search Filters' drop down menus give you the ability to build more precise searches, for example, an author's last name and a title; or a keyword phrase and an author's first name. Use the built-in Boolean operators (and, or, and not) to combine them.
3. Use these links to add additional search lines (Add a New Line) or clear them all (Clear) as needed.
4. Focus your searches even further by selecting a material type, a language, or a range of publication dates.
