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The articles found in many scholarly journals go through a "peer-review" process. In other words, the articles are checked by academics and other experts. The information is therefore reliable.  As well as containing scholarly information, journal articles can include reports and/or reviews of current research and topic-specific information.

Use scholarly journals when you need original research on a topic; articles and essays written by scholars or subject experts; factual documented information to reinforce a position; or references lists that point you to other relevant research. Scholarly journals take less time to publish than books, but the peer-review process can be lengthy. 

Popular articles found in magazines are often written by journalist or professional writers for a general audience.  They tend to be shorter than scholarly journal articles and rarely give full citations for sources.  Popular articles from magazines are helpful if you want background on a topic that is new to you or very current information.

Search the Library Catalog and then limit your results to articles

Need the article in 1-3 days? Use Interlibrary Loan. Many articles are delivered electronically to your desktop within 24 hours. For print items, you'll be notified by email when your item is available.

Need it NOW? Search Prospector (regional catalog) to determine if the journal is owned by a regional library in traveling distance. Call ahead to determine the journal's availability and to see if you need a flash drive, money for a copier, etc. at that library.  Or, order the article for a fee using a delivery service such as the publisher's website, Linda Hall Library, Infotrieve, or Ingenta.