Research and Reference Resources

Quick Guide to GreenFILE

Use GreenFILE for timely, in-depth information about environmental issues facing our planet. Topics range from global warming to recycling, alternate fuel sources, and beyond.

• How do I access GreenFILE?
• How do I conduct a search?
• Are there examples?
• Keep in mind...

 

How do I access GreenFILE?

To connect to GreenFILE, go to the Madison Public Library web page. By choosing Research > Databases > GreenFILE from the Madison Public Library web page, you will be able to access the database from anywhere. Or, access the database here.

 

How do I conduct a search?

Searching GreenFILE is like searching most EBSCOhost databases; choose from Basic, Advanced, and Visual.  For detailed information on how that works, visit Searching in EBSCOhost or ask a librarian for assistance.

As with all EBSCO databases, searching can be as simple or as involved as you’d like it to be. For example, try typing Global Warming into the basic search box and you’ll get thousands of results. Look to the right and left of the center results box and you’ll see ways to effectively narrow your search, restricting by date, type of publication, full text, subject area, etc.

 

Are there examples?

 

I need to find full-text articles about biodiesel from the last 10 years.

Enter biodiesel in the basic search box and click Search.

Check the Full Text box on the right, and move slider to 1999. Click Update Results.

 

Can I find the December 15, 2006 issue of Materials Recycling Week?

Click Publications.

Enter materials in the browse box and click Browse.

Click on the title and choose the issue from list on the right.

 

I want information about recycling in Madison.

Choose Advanced Search. Enter recycling in first box, choosing SU subject terms in drop down box. Make sure to choose and, then enter Madison, Wisconsin in next box. Leave Select a Field (optional) in drop down box.

 

Keep in mind...

Because this field of knowledge is relatively new, the Subject Terms menu choice (blue tab at top of page) can be extremely handy. For example, click on the Subject Terms tab and enter environmental into the browse box. Hit Browse and you’ll see subject terms you can use to effectively focus your search.

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