By Staff
MeL is the Michigan eLibrary, an anywhere, any time library for Michigan residents. It is available to all Michigan residents at . This service is funded in part by the State of Michigan through the Library of Michigan. Additional project support comes from the Federal Library Services and Technology Act via the Institute of Museum and Library Services. There are three components to MeL: MeL Internet, MeLCat and MeL Databases.
The MeL Internet collection includes over 30,000 links to Internet resources. Twelve librarians who are experts in their fields search the Internet and choose resources that they consider the most authoritative, comprehensive and useful on topics chosen to serve the needs and interests of Michigan residents. It is the perfect place to begin searching for reliable information on the Internet.
MeLCat links the catalogs of dozens of Michigan libraries so they can be searched simultaneously. Libraries are being added to MeLCat regularly. Although Niles District Library does not currently participate, we plan to join in the future.
MeL Databases are commercial databases purchased by the Library of Michigan for all Michigan residents. These databases are made available to Michigan residents exclusively. With the exception of Ancestry Library Edition, they are available from any computer with Internet access. Users are required to enter a Michigan driver's license number or a state identification number. Ancestry, a genealogical database, is available only in libraries.
These databases provide the full-text of hundreds of popular magazines, professional and trade journals as well as encyclopedias and other reference books. There are both general and specialized databases covering such topics as health and medicine, education and law. There are also databases designed specifically for children.
There is something in MeL Databases for everyone. The avid reader will appreciate "What Do I Read Next," a database which recommends fiction books based on what the reader has enjoyed in the past. Parents will find resources for helping their children with homework in several databases including, "InfoTrac Junior Edition" and "Kids Infobits."
History buffs will enjoy browsing one of the latest additions to MeL Databases "The Making of Modern Michigan" a collection of digitized materials from libraries throughout the state. The collection includes old photos and historical documents from dozens of Michigan cities.
"MEDLINE" is a collection of information gathered by the United States National Library of Medicine. It includes articles from thousands of medical journals and reference books.
"Learn-a-Test" is a unique resource which allows users to study for and take practice tests including civil service, real estate, military, college entrance and many others.
For more information about any of the MeL resources ask at the library's Information Desk.