The majority of the sources for your assignments can be found by using "OneSearch," the big search bar at the top of the LAVC Library homepage.
For assistance with finding articles with OneSearch, please refer to our Finding Articles guide.
After using OneSearch, you may want to continue your research in some of the databases in our A - Z list. Specific databases that will be particularly helpful for your assignment (in addition to OneSearch) are linked and described in the other boxes on this page.
You can also find journal, magazine, and newspaper articles in databases. Some databases have other kinds of sources. For example, Kanopy has streaming video. Opposing Viewpoints (see "Controversial Topics" below) includes statistics, viewpoints, and images as well as articles from academic journals, magazines, and newspapers.
Access thousands of award-winning documentaries and films across diverse subjects and disciplines. Please note: Users must register with Kanopy to stream content and the Library must purchase a license to make Kanopy films available. Due to limited funds, only faculty may request licenses. Faculty should refer to our Kanopy Guide to learn more about requesting films.
If you're writing about a controversial topic or a current event, these databases may help you see the big picture or different aspects of your topic, including multiple points of view. They contain a wide variety of sources, including "featured viewpoints" (which are opinion pieces) as well as journal, magazine, and newspaper articles; primary sources; and encyclopedia-like overviews or summaries.
Full-text access is limited to content published before July 2023.
CQ focuses on current events and controversial issues. Written by journalists, CQ's reports are footnoted and fact-checked. Full-length articles include an overview, historical background, chronology, pro/con feature, plus resources for additional research. Graphics, photos and short "sidebar" features round out the reports.
Wikipedia (which is a type of encyclopedia) is not allowed as a source for most classes, but the Library has many encyclopedias that you CAN use a source for background information for college assignments. A few examples are listed below.