People often say to me that they can “get all the
information I need by just asking Google”. How do you know that the
website any search engine points you to is giving you reliable information? A
library database is an organized collection of data that gets its information
from professionals or experts in the field. They contain published works
where facts are checked and they are easy to cite in a bibliography. Library
databases are updated frequently and include the date of publication. They
are perfect for your research and reference needs. We have a lot of databases
available for your use at the library on such topics as history, health &
science, business, literature and more. We have a database to help you learn a
language, research a medical problem, find stock and bond analysis, and find an
old newspaper article. Most can be accessed using your home computer or
you can use one of the many computers we have available in the library. A
reference librarian is always available to help you. Find a listing of
our databases on the library website, www.ewml.org/databases.htm
Let me introduce you to two of our popular databases:
Transparent Language and Morningstar. Transparent Language is an online
language learning system designed specifically for use by patrons of public
libraries. It takes you through a series of simple steps to memorize words and
phrases in a new language in the shortest possible time. Over 70 languages are
available for you to learn and you can access the system from inside the
library or at home. Transparent Language has advanced pronunciation
analysis to help users perfect their pronunciation skills and individual
progress tracking and assessment tests. It’s fun and easy to use and you
can even download a free app for your phone or tablet and get instant help with
a language while you are traveling.
Morningstar offers detailed analyst guidance on thousands of
stocks, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds. Morningstar is well known in
the investment world for their star rating system for stocks and bonds. Whether
you prefer to learn by reading or by watching videos, Morningstar will explain
the basics of stocks, options, ETF’s, and closed-end funds. You receive
unlimited access to easy-to-use portfolio management tools, personalized
portfolio analysis, select investment ideas, and independent, in-depth analyst
reports to help you earn returns you can count on. Whether you are just
keeping an eye on your mutual fund investments or you are an active stock
trader this database provided free for your use by the library is a valuable
investment tool. If you are new to investing Morningstar has a Help &
Education tab, if you want to learn the basics of asset allocation use the Portfolio
tab. Our librarians can help you get started so just stop by the
Reference Desk.
