Using full text databases and indexes
The State Library subscribes to a wide range of databases, including online services and CD-ROMs. These databases are identified and evaluated by reference staff. You need to be registered with a Reader's card to access these databases. The full range of the databases are available when you visit us at the Library. A selection of databases are also available for access from home to NSW residents for a trial period.
You can browse by subject or title and also search by title from the navigation bar on the left.
Some databases contain the full text of articles. If the full text is not available, you will need to search the Library's catalogue to find out if the journal is available at the Library or search the A-Z Electronic Journals list for holdings in other fulltext databases.
Conditions of Access
To use the online databases, you must be a New South Wales resident, registered as a State Library client and agree to the following Conditions of Access.
If you are not a registered client of the Library, you can apply online.
- Use of the databases is governed by licence agreements between the publishers and the Library, and users are required to comply with the terms and conditions of the licences.
- Use must be for private research and study purposes only - no use is allowed for business, commercial or work-related purposes.
- A limited amount of copying or reproducing of material from the databases is usually permitted for private research and study purposes only. Users should read carefully any copyright or terms of use statements appearing within the databases and act in accordance with instructions. Where no statement restricting copying is evident, users should assume that, as a minimum requirement, they are obliged to comply with the Australian Copyright Act 1968. Information on copyright is available from the Australian Copyright Council.
- Use is to be by the registered individual only — access is not transferable to other parties.
An extensive range of databases are available for use at the State Library in Macquarie St, Sydney. Some public libraries also provide access to selected databases. Contact your local library for detail.
FAQs
Can I use the databases at home?
Due to licensing restrictions, most of our databases are only available in the Library. However, some databases can be accessed via the Internet and links are provided to these.
The Library also compiles a list of Internet Links which have been identified and evaluated by reference staff to assist clients in finding quality information sources on the Internet. These are freely accessible on the Internet.
Can I download the information I find?
You can print out your results in the Library. A number of databases now provide the full text of articles as well as an email service which allows you to send your search results to an email address you select. No downloading facilities are available.
Can I book a computer in advance?
Computers can be booked in advance by telephoning the State Library on (02) 92731414 and asking for the Telephone Inquiry Service. You will need to be registered to access these resources.
Can I print from a computer?
Printing facilities are available. Prices vary according to format commencing from 20c for an A4 black & white print.
