Databases index the articles in periodicals (journals, newspapers, magazines). In other words, they list the contents of each issue of a journal, newspaper or magazine -- and sometimes provide the text of those articles.
Databases require a paid subscription, provided by Emory Libraries, so you can access these materials which are behind a paywall.
To select the best database for your research project, use the Databases@Emory page.
Choose your subject from the drop down box and you will get a list of databases that cover your subject. There is usually a "Best Bets" list of databases recommended by the subject librarian.
You can also refer to the Research Guides for databases recommended by librarians.