A database is a file of specialized information available on a computer.

The Tacoma Public Library subscribes to databases much like subscribes to magazines & newspapesr, but databases are much more expensive. Many of the databases to which we subscribe cost between $5,000 and $12,000 each year -- too expensive for any one individual to afford, yet vital resources for personal and professional research.

As access to these commercially-available databases is provided only to our patrons on a 24 hour basis, users must have a Tacoma Public Library card when using the databases from home, school or office. These databases can also be accessed, without a library card, in any one of our ten library locations in the city of Tacoma.

In addition to these commercial databases, the staff of the Tacoma Public Library also create databases.Many of these databases feature the resources of the Main Library's Northwest Room and Special Collections (such as our new Tacoma and Pierce County Buildings Index, and the comprehensive Washington State Place Names ). These databases are currently available for everyone to use and do not require a library card.