Databases


 * Using a database is a great way to find specific, relevant, credible sources. A database is a collection of journal articles, book chapters, newspaper articles, biographies, other text sources, and even pictures. Many databases are specific to a subject or to a period of time, although other databases contain information from just about every subject and time period.


 * When using a database, you'll get the best results by using advanced search. In all of the databases listed on this site, advanced search will let you search for more keywords with operators like "and", "or", or "not". For a quick tutorial on how to use search operators, click here! Advanced search may also allow you to choose peer-reviewed status, the type of publication you want to find, and a range of publication dates.


 * Many databases can be found through library websites. The sites that will allow you access to the databases are The Michigan eLibrary, which is free for all Michigan residents and contains links to many databases for various topics, and the AAPHS Media Center website, which will give you access to some databases, as long as you get a password from a librarian. The AAPHS Media Center website also offers a list of sources for research on Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. When using this resource, however, be careful - not all of the sources may be credible and appropriate for an academic research project (//Hint! About.com is not an acceptable resource!//).


 * The following is a list of recommended databases. Almost all of them are accessible through The Michigan eLibrary or through the AAPHS Media Center website. Those that are not accessible through those sites can be accessed through the UM Library websitewith a username and password.
 * **BdSL** (Bibliographie der deutschen Sprach- und Literaturwissenschaft) (Accessible through the UM Library Website, but only with a login)
 * This database is //auf Deutsch!// and contains articles on German language and literature. The articles are arranged by literary period, and are all in German. Ask a teacher for help in navigating this website if you get stuck; do not use Google translate!
 * **ELibrary**(Accessible through mel.org)
 * This database contains links to English-language journal and newspaper articles about Germany, as well as current pictures from German newspapers. The materials on this site are best used for research on current events in Germany and recent political issues in Germany. Just use the advanced search to find German-related materials!
 * **HeritageQuest** (Accessible through mel.org)
 * This database contains genealogical and local historical information. Use the Persi Places search to find information about German immigration and influence in Ann Arbor and other cities in Michigan.
 * **Gale Virtual Reference Library** (accessible through mel.org or through the AAPHS Media Center websitewith a password)
 * This database is a collection of reference materials, such as encyclopedias.
 * **General OneFile** (Accessible through mel.org)
 * This database contains articles (most of which are full-text) that have been published since 1980.
 * **JSTOR** (Accessible through the UM Library Website, but only with a login)
 * This database contains articles and primary sources that are best used or historical research in the humanities. There are some current journals in the database, but many articles and journals are more than ten years old.