New Databases for 2020

MBLC and MLS are pleased to be able to add FIVE new resources from our current vendors!

These new resources became available statewide on January 6, 2020. Librarians will be able to find links specific to their library in our link lookup directory. The resources will also automatically appear on the library's Galepages site. 

Database Additions

Opposing Viewpoints covers timely issues, from capital punishment to immigration to marijuana. This cross-curricular resource supports science, social studies, current events, and language arts classes. Informed, differing views help learners develop critical-thinking skills and draw their own conclusions.

Career Transitions provides guidance and essential activities to both current job seekers and those investigating new career options. Key features include resume and cover letter creation support, interactive interview practice, and tools to match previous work or military experience to potential career paths. 

HeritageQuest Online provides access to more than 4.4 billion historical and genealogical records. This essential collection of sources has coverage dating back to the 1700s and can help people both find their ancestors and discover a place's past.

Science Database is a growing resource of 7.3 mllion full text articles from over 1600 sources, supporting the needs of students studying applied and general sciences. Researchers will have access to all the charts, diagrams, graphs, tables, photos and other graphical elements so vital to scientific and engineering literature.

Research Companion helps students do more effective scholarly research and supports educators as they teach the core information literacy principles of finding, evaluating, and using information. 

Training Sessions

Training is being organized by MLS in conjunction with the vendors. Please check the MLS Event Calendar for any additional trainings of interest.  

Opposing Viewpoints in Context:

  • Tuesday, Jan. 14 from 3-3:30PM: Register
  • Wednesday, January 22 from 11-11:30AM: Register

Career Transitions:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 15 from 11-11:45AM: Register
  • Wednesday, Jan. 22 from 2-2:45PM: Register

HeritageQuest:

  • Thursday, Jan. 16 from 2-2:30PM: Register
  • Tuesday, Feb. 4 from 10-10:30AM: Register

ProQuest Science Database:

  • Thursday, Jan. 23 from 10-10:30AM: Register
  • Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 11-11:30AM: Register

Research Companion:

  • Thursday, Jan. 23 from 3-3:30PM: Register
  • Tuesday, Feb. 4 from 3-3:30PM: Register

Promotions

MBLC is currently working on social media posts as well as simple brochures which should be available to order by the end of January. A template press release is available now.

Funding Details 

Last year’s increase in state funding to MBLC budget line 7000-9506 (Library Technology and Resource Sharing) provides most of the nearly $800,000 for the new products. MLS is using funds from the increase it received in MBLC budget line 7000-9401 (State Aid to Regional Libraries) to contribute $100,000 a year. MLS also takes care of technical support for the databases.

Line Previous High FY19 FY20
7000-9401 (State Aid to Regional Libraries) $17,623,954 (FY02) $10,282,140 $11,516,000
7000-9506 (Resource Sharing and Technology) $4,420,235 (FY01) $2,815,928 $4,259,000