Every subject has unique and specialist types of information that add rigour and interest to research. Usually, you’ll need to look beyond Library Search for these information types; some are accessed via specialist databases, while others are available online via websites, social media or streaming platforms.
We’ve picked out some key resources for your subject here but you might like to explore our Resource Guides for more resources on different information types.
Technical, material property, standards and data sources
- Chemical, Physical and Materials Data GuideOur Chemical, Physical and Materials Data Guide links to all top resources for finding data for your studies.
- Knovel eBook Collection This link opens in a new windowThe top database for finding Engineering technical literature and material properties.
- British Standards Online (BSOL) This link opens in a new window
A full-text catalogue of British standards publications.
- ASTM Compass This link opens in a new windowA collection of industry-leading standards and technical engineering information and covers a broad range of engineering disciplines, including aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, environmental, geological, health and safety, industrial, materials science, mechanical, nuclear, petroleum, soil science, and solar engineering.
- Construction Information Service (CIS) This link opens in a new windowThis database is particularly useful for architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, building control officers, building services engineers, and other professionals in the construction industry. It offers essential industry information and legislation, along with supplementary material related to various sectors. The extensive collection of full-text documents encompasses all aspects of building, engineering, design, and construction in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
- ASCE Proceedings This link opens in a new windowWe have access to 35 journals and the proceedings from the American Society of Civil Engineers. Great place to find technical literature and standards.
- Marine Management Organisation (MMO)An executive non-departmental public body which licenses, regulates and plans marine activities in the seas around England.
- Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA)Internationally renowned institution involved in construction, design, maintenance and operation of marine vessels and structures
- Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME)Internationally recognised non-profit society serving the maritime and offshore industries and their suppliers.
- UK Chamber of ShippingTrade association and voice of the UK shipping industry with more than 180 members from across the maritime sector.
- IMarEST (Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and TechnologyIMarEST is the international professional body and learned society for all marine professionals.
- Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE)The UK’s leading independent advocate for science and engineering with a mission focus on skills, funding and policies.
- Admiralty EasyTideTidal prediction service.
- The International Maritime Organization (IMO)Specialised UN agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.
- IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC)Report outlining the latest scientific knowledge for the physical science basis of climate change and it impacts.
- Marine DigimapRaster nautical charts derived from UK Hydrographic Office charts and panels and vector data covering all UK waters.
- Marine TrafficReal-time public information service displaying ship movements and their destinations around the world.
- Maritime AffairsMaritime Affairs website on maritime affairs and policies from the European Commission.
- MarLIN: The Marine Life Information NetworkInformation on the biology of species and the ecology of habitats found around the coasts and seas of the British Isles.
- National Maritime MuseumEpic stories of exploration and endeavour that have shaped our world today.
- National Tidal and Sea Level Facility (NTSLF)UK centre of excellence for sea level monitoring, coastal flood forecasting and the analysis of sea level extremes.
- Port CitiesThe history and origins of UK port cities.
- The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO)Centre for hydrography specialising in marine geospatial data that helps to unlock a deeper understanding of the world's oceans
- United Kingdom Hydrographic OfficeProvides hydrographic and geospatial data to mariners and maritime organisations across the world.
- EurostatStatistics and data from the Statistical Office of the EU to enable European-wide comparison between countries and regions.
- HM TreasuryHM Treasury releases a large range of statistics including: Forecasts for the UK Economy; Weekly Economic Indicators; Statistics on Public Spending and Finance; Gross Domestic Product deflators.
- Office for National StatisticsBritain's economy, population and society at national and local level. You can find statistics on the following themes: • Agriculture and Environment • Business and Energy • Children, Education and Skills • Crime and Justice • Economy • Government • Health and Social Care • Labour Market • People and Places • Population • Travel and Transport.
- UK Data ServiceThe UK's largest collection of economic, population and social research data.
- UNECELinks to official statistical organizations active in the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) region.
- United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) This link opens in a new windowThe Department for Business, Innovation and Skills publish a range of National and Official Statistics; topics include: • Further and Higher Education • Building materials • Construction prices and costs • Economic performance and employment • Business population • Innovation • Trade Union Membership
Tyne and Wear Museums and Archives have rich collection of maritime history. Their user guide contains details of the kinds of material held in their archives relating to Shipbuilding, Marine Engineering, Ships Outfitting,Ship Repairing, Ship Registration & Professional and Employers Association.
There's even a special Mauretania section.
See our special Titanic Centenary Guide.
Resource Guides
Explore the different types of information available at the Library.
Support and services
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