It can be difficult to know if the database you are using can read accents. Usually, a French database (such as CAIRN.INFO) will read accents for what they are, however most other databases will not. In most cases, resources available in Library Search have been Romanized according to the Library of Congress Romanization Tables.
If you are using an English keyboard, try enabling the IME to easily access French accents. For information on how to do this, and tips and tricks on searching in languages other than English, see the Finding non-English resources Library Guide or check out IME guides based on your device (Windows or Mac)