Databases are organized collections of information, often focused on a particular subject or type of resource. Unlike general internet searches, databases offer a structured way to access curated content. Thanks to the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), all Rhode Island residents have free access to a number of high-quality databases, covering subjects from test guides to car repair. Many other trusted databases are also freely available to the public. If you're looking for trustworthy, authoritative information – and a better search experience – try using a database!
AskRI Databases
AskRI is Rhode Island's online resource center, providing free access to a wide range of databases for all RI residents. Below are a few featured selections. Visit the AskRI website to explore the full collection.
- Providence Journal Historical and Current Collection – Fully searchable archive of the Providence Journal and Evening Bulletin going back to 1829. View scans of articles up to 1982, and and text only articles from 1981 to the present day.
- Flipster – View complete issues of popular magazines in your web browser. For mobile devices, download the Flipster app.
- Auto Repair Source – Accurate and up-to-date OEM service and repair information for thousands of domestic and imported vehicles. Search by Year, Make, and Model to view technical service bulletins, component location diagrams, wiring diagrams, DTCs, part numbers, and more.
- LearningExpress Library – Practice tests, exercises, skill-building courses, eBooks, and other information to enhance academic or workplace proficiencies. Practice tests include PSAT, SAT, ACT, TOEFL, GMAT, LCAT, MCAT, PCAT, GRE, GED, and more. Also find resources for workforce training, professional licensing exams, and adult education. Registration is required to access most content and to keep track of your progress.
- Novelist – Love fiction? Then you'll love Novelist, an award-winning reader's advisory service! Browse book lists and genre headings, and search for books matching your favorite reads by theme, setting, storyline, writing style, and more. Great for book clubs, teachers, and librarians too.
- Points of View Reference Center – Exactly what the name implies, offering rich content on multiple sides of an issue to help students (and others) understand controversial issues, develop analytical thinking skills, and assess and develop persuasive arguments.
- Udemy – Thousands of up-to-date online video courses. User ratings mean that you'll be able to find the best content on a wide range of topics, including art, technology, business, personal development, and more. Want to learn creative writing or computer programming and don't know where to start? Give Udemy a try. A Microsoft or Google account is required to create a login for this service.
- Tutor.com – Not a database per se, but a homework help service. Tutor.com provides online, on-demand academic tutoring, homework help, and test preparation to students grades K-12, plus early college students and adult learners. Tutors are available 7 days a week, 2-10 pm. Need homework help? Tutor.com is your friend!
Other Databases
- Google Scholar – The world's most popular search engine for academic researchers. Locate citations and full-text sources and use the handy citation tool to save you time. Great for students but also extremely useful for anyone looking for peer-reviewed literature in any subject.
- Internet Archive – A non-profit library of millions of free books, movies, software, music, websites, and more. Use the popular Wayback Machine to view old webpages. Especially nostalgic for the early days of the Internet!
- MedlinePlus – A service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library and part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Find high-quality, trusted, and easy to understand information on any health or wellness topic, free of advertising.