How to Find Obituaries Electronically at the Library
Most libraries now have electronic databases that are capable of providing obituary notices to their patrons. The library subscribes to the database so that its users can download information "for free," so regional newspapers are usually included. Obituaries published two or three decades ago, however, are usually not in the databases. Old newspapers are still often accessible only on microfilm, and in very rare cases, old newspapers are stored.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Finding Obituaries at the Library
-
1
Search your library's top-end, most popular database, on the computer. Academic libraries and some public libraries will subscribe to a number of them, so inquire with the reference librarian which one is the best, general purpose source. The reference librarian is a key resource, an expert in finding information, so use yours. When you get to the database, searching it is like searching any other online source. Type in the search terms--in this case, the name of the deceased person, and see what comes up. Since the library has already paid the fee, you should be able to view the file for free.
-
2
Select the .pdf version of the file, rather than the .html version. Pdf files are basically scans of the original newspaper, so you will be able to see the rest of the newspaper page along with the obituary. If you are doing historical research, this added view of what was happening at the time is invaluable. Also, pdf files will show you the photograph that was printed, if there was one. Html files strip the photos out of the document.
-
-
3
Browse through the other databases on the list if the main database does not yield results. These sources will be less used, but may be more specific. For example, while most people start with Academic Search Premier, not all newspapers are available through it. Your library might subscribe to America's Newspapers, Chicago Tribune, Newspaper Source, or any number of independent papers. It depends on your library.
-
4
Look through the newspaper indexes on the shelf to search through the library's microfilmed newspapers, a very old-fashioned form of electronic/film storage. Most very old newspapers are still available only this way, not on the computer. They are arranged alphabetically, so you would look up the last name of the deceased person. If it is in the index, you should see the title of the obituary and the date. Armed with that information, you can go to the microfilms, usually housed in filing cabinets. Pull out the drawer labeled with your date, thread the spool on the microfilm-reading machine, and spin through to the correct date. You will be able to read the obituary, and, for a few pennies, print a photocopy of it. If you have trouble with the technology, the reference librarian will be happy to help.
-
1
