Getting Started
Begin your research by brainstorming keywords - the words and phrases you’ll use to search for books, articles, websites, government documents, and other resources. These may include names of people and places or historical concepts like eras and movements. A librarian can suggest “subject headings” to find the most relevant resources.
Example Keywords & Catalog Subject Headings
Database/Online Resources
Library databases are online collections of information, organized for research. Databases contain articles, eBooks, images, maps, primary sources and more. If you don’t have a library card, register online for immediate access to these resources. The following recommended databases are available on our Research and Teen Social Studies pages.
New York Times Historical Backfile on ProQuest
Contains full-text and images in PDF format of the New York Times from 1851 to three years before current year.
Readers' Guide Retrospective: 1890-1982 (Ebsco)
Comprehensive index of popular general-interest magazines published in the United States reflecting the history of 20th century America. This resource primarily includes citations, but there are a limited number of items availaible in full text. Includes an option to search for peer-reviewed sources. Once you've found a citation for an article you want to read, ask a librarian if you need help finding the article's full text.
World History (Gale)
Research resources for human history of the world. Find topics about human civilizations, countries, cultures, economics, events, periods or eras, human rights, political organizations, religions, and wars. Includes reference and encyclopedia entries, biographies, news articles, primary sources, and academic journals.
U.S. History (Gale)
Provides a complete overview of U.S. history covering the most-studied events, decades, conflicts, wars, political and cultural movements, and people. Search reference sources, full-text magazines, academic journals, news articles, primary sources, images, videos, audio files, and see links to curated web sites.
Prospector: Materials from Other Colorado and Wyoming Libraries
As a Denver Public Library customer, you can also borrow materials from other libraries in Colorado and Wyoming. Use Prospector to request materials that DPL does not own.
Internet Sources
Before using information you find on the internet for assignments and research, it is important to establish that the information comes from a reliable and appropriate source. The following websites, from government, academic and nonprofit organizations, have been evaluated for authority, accuracy, content and currency.
Contact the Reference Services department for help with your research project
- Phone us, 720-865-1363
- Chat with us online with the Ask Us! Service
- Meet with us in person or online to work one-on-one with a librarian