There are several ways of searching the databases.
Broad searches
The BROAD SEARCH box allows a search of all indexed fields in
the database.
Type a term in the BROAD SEARCH box
For example: Bushrangers
Then use the SEARCH button to start the search.
Names can also be typed in the BROAD SEARCH box
For example: John Batman or Flinders Lane.
Advanced searching
The databases provide options for narrowing or
refining searches.
The Boolean operators & for AND, / for OR, ! for NOT can be
used to combine words within a field.
For example:
trams / buses will locate records containing references to trams
or buses
trams & Fitzroy will locate records containing references
to trams in Fitzroy
trams ! Fitzroy will locate records containing references to
trams but not trams in Fitzroy
Searches
can also be made by selecting terms from the SUBJECTS or ITEM CREATOR boxes.
The SUBJECTS or ITEM CREATOR box can be searched by
typing a term in the field box
or
selecting a term using the BROWSE LIST on the right of the field box.
Browse list
BROWSE LIST allows the viewing of indexed terms in the database.
(Please note: not all browsers support BROWSE LISTS)
The BROWSE LIST button opens the WORD BROWSE LIST.
As several fields are included in the BROWSE LIST box it may be necessary
to select the required field from the Field list box in the bottom
right hand corner of the BROWSE LIST box.
To locate a term in the BROWSE LIST box type the beginning of a term
in the Find box and use the Go To button.
Select the required term and use the Paste button to insert the term
in the field box on the Search Screen.
More than one term may be selected in a search.
Currently not all records in the HistoryVictoria Database have entries
in SUBJECTS and ITEM CREATOR fields. However searching in these field
boxes may help narrow the search.
Searching indexing terms for manuscripts can be made using the Subjects
field in the SUBJECTS box.
Other Boolean search options
The Boolean buttons on the left of the field boxes can be used to
combine fields in a search.
Selecting a term from ITEM TYPE box can narrow a search For example: Type Trams in the BROAD SEARCH box and select
Photograph from the ITEM TYPE box to locate records of photograhs
of Trams.
Terms can be truncated to search for variations of spelling or for
plurals.
To find all words that start with part of a term use * For example societ* will find words Society and Societies.
The SEARCH button is used to start search.
Click the RESET button to clear the search screen to enter the criteria
for a new search.
The HELP button on the Search Screen provides detailed information
about searching the database.
Viewing records
A report form provides the title and item type of records located
in a search. Select a hyperlinked title for futher information about
the record. Next and Previous record buttons allow moving to display
forms for other items. Use the Return to Search Screen link when ready
to undertake another search.
