Does Library Services provide access to Scopus?

Answer

To answer your question directly: No, the Devereaux Library does not currently provide access to Scopus.

Why Scopus isn't there (and what to use instead)

Scopus is an Elsevier product that requires a very expensive subscription. Because South Dakota Mines is a specialized STEM institution, the library prioritizes databases that are specifically tailored to engineering, mining, and hard sciences rather than "all-purpose" citation trackers like Scopus.

You have several high-quality alternatives to Scopus. Since South Dakota Mines focuses heavily on engineering and science, your "next best" choice depends on your specific field.

Here are the top picks from Library Services' specific A-Z list:

1. The "True" Scopus Alternative: Web of Science

If you need a multidisciplinary database for citation tracking, impact factors, and broad scientific coverage, this is the most direct substitute.

Best for: Finding high-impact research across all sciences and tracking who has cited a specific paper.

2. For Engineering: Compendex (via Engineering Village)

At a school like SD Mines, this is often actually better than Scopus for engineering-specific topics.

Best for: Deep technical research, conference proceedings, and trade publications that general databases might miss.

Key Feature: It uses a very specific "controlled vocabulary" (the Ei Thesaurus) which makes your searches much more precise than Google Scholar.

3. For Chemistry & Materials: SciFinder (CAS)

If your research involves chemical structures, reactions, or specific materials/substances, SciFinder is the gold standard.

Best for: Chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science. It is far more comprehensive for substance-based searching than Scopus.

4. For Earth Sciences: GeoRef

Because of the location and specialty of SD Mines, the library provides GeoRef, which is the premier database for geology and geophysics.

Best for: Mining engineering, geological engineering, and paleontology.

Last Updated Jan 15, 2026
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LIBRARY SERVICES is here to support you. We provide a wide range of electronic resources – including e-books, online journals, research databases, and streaming media – available to you anytime, anywhere. We also offer a print collection with books, journals, and reference materials ready for you to explore or borrow.

Most importantly, Library Services staff are here to help you navigate these resources, use them effectively, and connect with the information you need. Visit us on the top floor of the Devereaux Building or get in touch – we look forward to working with you! Ask A Librarian

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