Using Colorado Newspapers for Research


There are various resources when it comes to searching newspapers in Colorado. Most of these resources are available from Arapahoe Libraries. We will cover some of them here, along with others. 

Online Resources

Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection, opens a new window (CHNC) (1859-2022)

An always expanding online resource! When I need to go way back in Colorado history my first stop is the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection (CHNC). CHNC currently includes 665+ newspapers published in Colorado from 1859 up to 2022. With publisher permission, they can digitize beyond 1926. Newspapers within the collection come from throughout the state, and include papers published in English, German, Italian, Japanese, Slavic, Spanish, Servian, and Swedish. 

Access World News, opens a new window (Newsbank) (1989-Present)

Great for searching for articles from 130 Colorado-based publications, including the Denver Post and Rocky Mountain News. Use your library card to access. 

The Denver Post (Access World News) (1894-1989) 

Looking for Denver Post articles before 1989? There are some libraries and archives that subscribe to an expanded version of Access World News, for in-library use only. Two of those are:


Microfilm

It's always an option! Who has it? 

Denver Public Library, opens a new window

Using DPL's large card catalog and their fantastic microfilm collection can make research a breeze. 

History Colorado, opens a new window

History Colorado is another great place to access Colorado newspapers on microfilm. 

Carnegie Library for Local History, opens a new window (Boulder Public Library)

The Carnegie Library in Boulder, Colorado is a building from 1906, and is a branch of the Boulder Public Library. A great resource for Boulder history, and the Boulder Daily Camera on microfilm. Available by appointment, opens a new window only. 

Other Resources

Google News Archive Search, opens a new window

An online resource with a limited collection, but still worth checking out. No keyword searching.


Keep in mind that different library districts subscribe to various databases, that may not always be the same from one to the next. It's best to check all the library websites in your region to ensure you are taking advantage of all the databases that are accessible either online or in person.