Social Service Worker

Use the Library Search on the homepage, or browse these key databases. For instructions on how to use the Library Search, get started with this short video tutorial.

What are government publications?

Government publications are normally found on the website of a specific department of the Government. When possible perform the search on the department's website. You can also use the searchbox on the Government of Canada homepage to find government publications on your topic. 

Another method of finding government publications is to use a Google Advanced Search. 

• Search your topic with the appropriate keywords [ie: refugees and housing]
• Limit your search to the site domain: canada.ca OR .gc.ca
• Note: You may also want to narrow your date to publications from the last few years

Example Google Advanced search: 

What are Position Papers? 

• Reports outlining an attitude or viewpoint regarding a specific issue.
• Their purpose is to:
  • a) Define a stance, clearly stating a position on a subject
  • b) Support the stance, providing arguments, facts, data and references that support the position
  • c) Persuade the reader on the validity of the position, often addressing counterarguments.
• Published by service organizations, government agencies, associations, think tanks, advocacy groups and coalitions to generate support on an issue.

Tips for Finding Position Papers:

• Identify an organization, agency, or association that aligns with your issue. Visit their website to explore their research, publications, or reports, and look for articles or official statements that outline their position on the topic. To find organizations and associations, here are some suggestions: 
  • Canada Commons: Search this library database by keyword, or browse a directory of over 4000 Canadian research and government organizations. 
  • Use Toronto 211 to find relevant Toronto agencies
  • Use Ontario 211  to find relevant Ontario agencies.
• Include the phrase "position paper"  or "position statement" in a search engine. Example: "position paper" + issue (ie: "position paper" and "food insecurity"). More, try using a Google Advanced Search. 
  • Search for "position paper" [and your topic]
  • Try limiting to a document type [.pdf] OR try limiting your search to a site domain [ie: .org] 
  • Note: You may also want to narrow your date to publications from the last few years.

Example Google Advanced search: 

Choose keywords carefully

• Choose words specific to your topic
• Only use 2 or 3 main concepts
• Use AND to combine different concepts

Include synonyms

• Broaden your search
• Include medical and popular terminology
• Use OR to combine synonyms for the same concept

Filter your results

• Publication date - for example only items published in the past 5 years
• Resource type - for example only journal articles

Keep trying

• Add/remove search terms to limit/expand your search
• Try different databases
• Research often takes longer than expected