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Michigan State University

Journalism Research Guide: Documentaries

Documentaries in the MSU Library Catalog

The MSU Libraries has a large DVD collection in the Digital Media Center which includes some documentaries. The Libraries also has many online streaming videos available through Academic Video Online. Both can be found by searching the MSU Libraries Advanced Search.

Search for a title, and in the search results, use the limiters on the left side of the screen to limit to Source Type "Video"

library search result screen


 

Streaming Documentaries

Alexander Street Press: VAST: Academic Video Online

Search thousands of award-winning films from dozens of producers and distributors

Find Streaming Titles Licensed by MSUL

There are two primary ways to find streaming videos that MSU Libraries has licensed:

  • Go to the Media page (also linked under Electronic Resources). It lists major collections of streaming video that MSU Libraries has licensed for educational use. If you are new to streaming video, a good place to start is Academic Video Online, Kanopy, Film Platform, and Films on Demand. MSU also now has access to the "top 1000" titles from Swank Motion Pictures, as well.
  • Check the MSU Library catalog. Much streaming videos purchased for the MSUL are cataloged, though you will find an overabundance of DVDs because of the Rovi collection. You can identify an online/streaming video because it will in the catalog record two things: "MSU Online Resource" and under Description "Streaming Video File."
  • If you do not find the streaming content you are looking for it may be possible to obtain a that film otherwise. Please talk to the subject librarian who is the liaison to your department, or contact someone about course reserves in the DMC.