Google Scholar:
| Library Databases | Google Scholar | |
| Specialized Content: | Often specialize in specific subject areas, providing more focused and comprehensive coverage. | Does not have the ability to focus search by subject area. |
| Access to Full Texts: | Many offer direct access to full-text articles, making it easier to access content without encountering paywalls or access restrictions. | Provides full text of some electronic articles but is not as helpful in tracking down print articles. Some articles may be available for a fee. |
| Subscription Access: | Provides access to a wide range of scholarly content that may not be readily available without a subscription. | No access to scholarly content available only through subscriptions. |
| Advanced Search Functionality: | Typically offer more advanced search features, allowing users to perform complex queries, filter results by various criteria, and conduct more precise searches. | Does not have full criteria to create advanced searches and to limit your search results. |
| Quality Control: | Often have rigorous quality control measures in place to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, including peer review processes, editorial oversight, and content curation by subject experts. | Does not have strong quality control features as to type of content included in search. |
| Specialized Features: | May offer additional features tailored to the needs of researchers in specific disciplines, such as data analysis, citation management, or collaboration with other researchers, which can enhance the research process and productivity. | Does not offer additional features. |