Your Abilene Public Library is thrilled to announce the addition of a new database that will forever change your ability to search through the Abilene Reporter-News. Available now, for all library cardholders, we invite you to take advantage of the Historical Newspapers: Texas Collection database, available by visiting our e-Resources page online. But let’s dive a little into what makes this database amazing.
Powered by ProQuest, this database allows you to travel back in time to access digitally scanned newspapers with full-page images provided in a downloadable PDF format. Of the publications included in this database, 20 are historical newspapers including coverage of Abilene with the following newspapers:
- Abilene Daily Reporter (1910-1937)
- The Abilene Morning News (1926-1936)
- Abilene Reporter-News (1944-2005)
Currently patrons have only been able to rely on accessing past issues of the Abilene Reporter-News by use of the Texas Portal or by visiting the Main Library to access our microfilm collection. However, with this database, you may search through these publications to locate the items you want 24/7, no matter where you are.
When you first log into this database, you’ll be presented with a simple search box to begin your research. Simply type in your search query and you’ll be presented with a list of results that you may then limit to full-text items or by date range. Click on the date heading of the article listing you want and you’ll be able to view a scanned copy of that section of the paper, with the option of continuing to navigate your way through that issue.
If you find something you like, you also have the option to download the article, share it via email, print, and much more. Whether you’re researching a local business or looking for an obituary, you have access to all of the variations of the Abilene Reporter-News up to 2005. That’s incredible. Additionally, this database will provide access to historical newspapers from Corpus Christi and El Paso too.
Take the time to browse this new database and see what you think about it. We’re sure it will become one of our most widely used resources. Remember, you must have a valid Abilene Public Library card to access this database remotely or from one of our library computers from our three branch locations.
Happy Hunting!