Skip to Main Content

Brooklyn Periodicals Department: WHAT IS A PERIODICAL?

pe·ri·od·i·cal

adj \ˌpir-ē-ˈä-di-kəl\

Definition of PERIODICAL
1: periodic 1
2 a : published with a fixed interval between the issues or numbers
   b : published in, characteristic of, or connected with a periodical

  First Known Use of PERIODICAL 1601

peer re·viewed jour·nal

A peer-reviewed publication defines itself through a stringent editorial process conducted by experts in the field. Articles must be screened, usually by an editorial board, before being accepted for publication.

Should you wish to explore periodicals and journals in a given discipline, or to find out which journals are peer-reviewed, the Brooklyn Campus Library has some resources to assist you in your search.

1.  Ulrich's Periodicals Directory  
"Ulrich's is a directory which provides basic information on periodicals and serial publications. Information includes, but is not limited to: publisher names, phone numbers, and addresses; editors; first year published and name changes; advertising and subscription rates; indexing and abstracting sources; frequency; ISSN; and contact information for usage rights and permissions." (As annotated on our list of databases. 

We carry Ulrich's in print (Secured Reference, 3rd floor) and online. 

Both the print version of Ulrich's and the online specify whether or not a periodical is peer-reviewed. If in doubt, ask a librarian.

2. Cabell's Directory of Publishing Opportunities Series
The Cabell's directories provide detailed information about specific journals, including their rejection rates. The library carries a selected number of volumes, including Education, Accounting, Economics, Management, Marketing and Psychology. They are located in Secured Reference, 3rd floor. Ask a librarian.

TYPES OF PERIODICALS

Depending on your research you may want to use different types of periodicals.  For example, if you are doing research on the future of stem cells you may want to use peer reviewed journals as opposed to a magazine.  You may find many articles on the topic you are reasearching but you want to use the most credible sources on the subject.


This page will help you learn to identify different types of periodicals to aid you in your research. 



    

TYPE OF PERIODICALS

Click on the box title to view a breakdown of periodicals. 

SCHOLARLY JOURNALS