The A-Z Databases can be accessed on the UW-Superior website by going to Student Life and selecting Jim Dan Hill Library.
Photo by Trey Emery | The Promethean
The Jim Dan Hill Library at UW-Superior offers students a variety of services and resources. One of the more interesting amenities are the A-Z Databases.
A library database is a collection of information, often peer-reviewed, which is organized to allow users to access various types of information from magazines, newspapers, journals, books, and movies. Sure, there are search engines like Google and Bing. However, the information in a database has been tagged with all sorts of data which allows users to search more effectively and efficiently for the material they need.
Need a scholarly article? Try JSTOR or Sage Journals. Want to watch a documentary? Try Films on Demand. Need a book? Ebook Central has books that are required for some UWS courses.
In fact, Natasha Schumacher, UWS’ Systems and Digital Services Librarian, said they have around 200 databases with “topics that range from media to multicultural resources, history to psychology, business and finance to health, and everything in between.”
The Jim Dan Hill Library is open 7:45 a.m.-10 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Friday, and 5-10 p.m. on Sunday. But its online databases are open 24/7. Photo from Promethean File
The A-Z Databases provide students with access to resources they would normally have to pay for or subscribe to, such as a newspaper subscription. Additionally, the databases are accessible 24/7, on- and off-campus.
While there has previously been confusion about whether online students have access to the databases, Schumacher clarified, “All students, in-person and distance learners, have access to all library resources.”
Schumacher explained that students can use the same login information they use for Canvas to access the A-Z Databases, saying, “Students automatically have a library account created once they registered in E-Hive.”
While databases are great resources for academic research, they also have a lot to offer for personal use. Kanopy has a large library of classic and contemporary movies and documentaries from providers like PBS, BBC, the A24 Collection, and the Criterion Collection. Schumacher stated that book lovers can find plenty of newer audio books and ebooks at Overdrive, while Hoopla is a great option for popular content.
Further, students looking for profession al development might find LinkedIn Learning useful, while genealogy hobbyists can use Newspapers.com. Schumacher shared that students who have trouble accessing a database can follow the library’s online Access Electronic Resources guide for troubleshooting tips, email a librarian, make an appointment (via Zoom, phone, or in person), or swing by the library for assistance.
Whether prepping for finals or looking for some content while chilling over holiday breaks, take advantage of the resources offered and check out the A-Z Databases.
