These encyclopedia databases are included in the Library Catalog "Everything" search (encyclopedia articles are called Reference Articles in the library catalog), but by using the individual databases you will get more powerful search options.
Since encyclopedia articles focus on basic, general information about a topic, what you type in the search box should also be general:
YES: Buddhism
YES: Buddhism AND doctrine
NO: Buddhism AND medieval japan AND relic veneration
An encyclopedia is a type of reference book. Use a reference book to: