The Staunton Public Library subscribes to a number of online research tools that are made available for public use. Online databases may be accessed from internet computers in the Computer Center or your home or office computer. Some of these sites may require your Staunton Public Library account number and Library PIN.

Visit our genealogy and local history page to learn more about those topics.

Note to Virginia residents: The Library of Virginia subscribes to a number of current and historical newspapers, magazines, and journals, as well as genealogical resources, historical maps, civil war records, encyclopedias and directories, and many other texts.  If you sign up for a Library of Virginia library card using their online registration system (requires a valid state issued driver’s license or identification card), you can gain immediate remote access to the Library’s subscription databases and catalog features requiring a login.

MasterFILE Complete is the most comprehensive and valuable collection of full-text general interest resources, including returns from periodicals, newspapers and books. This authoritative general information database is the best place to start your research project. 

Online Learning

• Creativebug: 1,000+ video classes in painting, knitting, crafting, sewing, and more.
• JobNow: Informative, easy-to-use, and free Internet resources for job seekers; including personality and career assessments.
• Transparent Language: Language learners can build vocabulary, practice skills, and maintain what they have learned with Transparent Language Online, available anytime, anywhere in 110+ languages.
• Accel5 Business Library: Online learning for the working professional, featuring short videos on topics including business competencies, leadership & management, and personal effectiveness.
• Universal Class: More than 500 courses are available on topics such as Exercise and Fitness,  Arts and Music, Home and Garden Care, Computers and Technology, Health and Medicine, Pet and Animal Care, plus hundreds more. 
• Driving Tests: DMV practice tests for car, motorcycle, and CDL.

Magazines & Newspapers

• Explora:  A user-friendly interface, designed to meet the unique needs of its users. Explora supports both student research and classroom instruction.
• Magzter: Full digital copies of magazines that can be viewed on your computer or mobile device.
• The New York Times: Free on-site and off-site access to NYTimes.com.

Reference and Research Tools

• Encyclopedia Virginia:  A project of Virginia Humanities in partnership with the Library of Virginia, EV publishes topical and biographical entries written by scholars, edited to be accessible to a general audience, and vigorously fact checked.
• NoveList Plus: Helps you find your next book to read.
• Salem Science: Covers a wide range of physical and natural sciences.
• VetNow:  An all-in-one suite of services designed for a wide range of veteran needs: whether it’s updating a resume for civilian life, navigating the VA system, or seeking local resources and support for veterans and their families. 
• Virginia Navigator: Helps you find services and resources for seniors and those with disabilities.

Legal

• Gale Legal Forms Library: Thousands of legal forms available with more forms being added daily. Official, State Specific, Federal, Business, Personal, Real Estate and General forms covering hundreds of legal subjects and issues.
• Guide to Virginia Legal Information Resources: Compiled by the Virginia Association of Law Libraries Access to Justice Committee, this document contains a list of general legal and self-help titles for the public and self-represented litigants.
• Staunton City Code: The general ordinances of the City of Staunton, Virginia.
• Central Shenandoah Planning District: A wealth of information and links about everything from land use planning, transportation, economic and community development, to human services.
• Virginia General Assembly and Legislative Information System
• Virginia’s Judicial System with case status information
• Virginia Law, Code, and Constitution
• Free Legal Information Resources

Health

• Health Reference Series Online: Access to Disabilities Sourcebook and Medical Tests Sourcebook. Use your Staunton Library card number, or use “valleylibraries” for Universal Password.
• Salem Health: Access to Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Infectious Diseases & Conditions, and Psychology and Mental Health books
• Medline Plus: The National Institutes of Health's website produced by the National Library of Medicine.
• Merck Manual Home Edition: Access to the world's bestselling home medical reference.