What Is Texas Almanac Online?

• Texas Almanac Online is a database which provides users with a comprehensive collection of historical, cultural, political and geographical information on the state of Texas. It is useful for patrons wishing to access online information for use in reports and research on the history of Texas.

Strengths Of The Database:

• As the electronic version of the 2004-2005 Texas Almanac, it provides a convenient way to search online for information and allows for an easy way to print hard copies of relevant documents, maps, tables and photos.

Weaknesses Of The Database:

• Some of the information that is provided is too brief and/or incomplete.
• Electronic format prevents truly efficient browsing and does not allow for a user to look in the Index for search terms as they would in the print format.

Useful Tips

• In order to keep track of and save the documents you would like to keep make sure to “Mark” them. This will create a “Mark List” which you can then Email to yourself. The “Mark List” also makes it easier to print the documents you need all at once.
• Make sure to click on the “Format for Printing” link before you print out your document, this will ensure that you receive a document that is correctly printed on the page.

 How Do I Search The Texas Almanac Online?

•  There is only one search screen in this database from which all the various types of searches are done. This screen below is what appears upon entering the Texas Almanac Online and is the main search screen.

Sample Basic Search

Instructions:

1. Choose your search terms and type them into the entry box at the top of the page.
2. You may either search “Full-text” which searches the entire document, or “Keyword” which is a more focused search using subject keywords.
3. Choose which document types you would like to search. The database will automatically search all essays, tables, maps and photos unless you specify otherwise.
4. Click on either “Search” button

• Full-Text Search: Searches the entire document, including the text of the document, for your search terms.
• Keyword Search: Searches for the presence of your search terms in titles, headings, and descriptor fields. Does not search the text of the document.
• Search by Tables, Essay, Maps or Photos: You can limit your search to only retrieve certain types of documents by selecting or de-selecting the appropriate entry boxes at the bottom of the search page. 

You May Also Browse And Search By Chapter:  

• The database provides a list of chapters by which the user can search or browse by topic. Topics include such headings as "Agriculture", "Crime", "Culture and the Arts", "Health and Science" and many others.
• You can Browse by Chapter by selecting one of the topics and clicking on the “Search” button. You will then be given a list of documents associated with that chapter. The list will be sorted alphabetically by title and will include all document types available.
• You can Search by Chapter as well by selecting one or more chapter headings from the text box, and then entering in your search terms into the entry box at the top of the page.

Sample Chapter Search

You want to search for information regarding crops grown in Texas.

Instructions:

1. Enter in the search term “crop” into the entry box at the top of the page.
2. Select relevant chapter headings such as "Agriculture", "Business and Industry" and "Counties of Texas".
3. Hint: To select more than one chapter hold down the “Ctrl” key while clicking on the chapter heading in the text box.
4. Select which types of documents you would like to include.
5. Click on either “Search” button