Millions of newspaper and magazine articles available via Internet 24/7

Palo Alto -- The Palo Alto City Library wants more people to know about the many reference sources that are available online. On behalf of its customers, the Library subscribes to dozens of licensed databases containing millions of articles. In many cases, these resources are unavailable to people who want to use them directly, but are free and easily accessible to anybody who has a Palo Alto library card.

“Public libraries are changing as society does,” says Library Director Paula Simpson. “People get information in new ways. For example, in a recent library survey of several local counties, 87% of the respondents reported having a computer at home that is connected to the Internet. We know Palo Altans still want the high quality reference information they are accustomed to receiving from the Library, but now they want it--and can get it--24 hours a day and without having to leaving home, work or school.”

The scope of the resources is extensive. “Every day, library customers doing research discover online information they would never have found using traditional Internet search engines,” says Reference Manager Sylvia Baker.

“Using online subscription services,” Ms. Baker continued, “people planning vacations can brush up on language skills in over two dozen languages using a database called Rosetta Stone. Students can practice SAT and Advanced Placement tests online using true previews of the official exams in Learning Express Library. Patients can learn more about their specific condition by watching videos and reading articles through the Health and Wellness Resource Center .”

To explore Resources Online or find out how to get a Palo Alto City Library card, visit the Library website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/library . Funding for some online resources is made available by generous contributions from the Friends of the Palo Alto Library.

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