Public Libraries
Ask your local librarian! Many public libraries throughout the U.S.:
- Have unique, varied materials you can check out for free with a library card.
- Can get articles and books for you through interlibrary loan services, if they're not already available.
- Provide access to digital resources, within the library and remotely. For example:
- Massachusetts residents can access online research databases through the Massachusetts Libraries website.
- The Boston Public Library offers eCards to access digital resources.
Academic Libraries
Most public and some private university libraries provide visitors with on-site access to digital resources. It is always worth checking with your local university about their visitor access policies.
National Libraries
National libraries usually make their print collections publicly available. Many also offer on-site and remote access to digital resources.
For example eResources from the National Library of Australia offers many databases that can be accessed with a library card including Ebsco eBooks, NewsBank Access World News, and the Economist Historical Archive.
Locating Library Resources
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National LibrariesList of National Libraries from around the world compiled in Wikipedia. Some national libraries provide onsite and remote access to article databases.
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Presidential LibrariesProvides access to the web sites of Presidential Libraries from Herbert Hoover to William Clinton. Materials available electronically include selected speeches, diaries, letters, and memoranda.
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The Library of CongressOnline collections including extensive American history resources.
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U.S. State Libraries & ArchivesList of U.S. State Libraries & Archives compiled in Wikipedia. Some state libraries provide free access to article and news databases.
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WorldCatFind books, journals, and other material types at libraries around the world by location. Your local library may be able to obtain items for you through interlibrary loan or you may be able to use items on site depending on visitor policies.