Resource of the Week: CIAO

As one of the most comprehensive resources for documents relating to foreign and international affairs, Columbia International Affairs Online (CIAO) is an excellent resource for advanced history projects (International Relations, Economics, etc…).  The database includes original full-text research and writings published in working papers from university research institutes, occasional papers series from NGOs, foundation-funded research projects, conference proceedings, books, journals and policy briefs.  Although the emphasis is research and policy papers, CIAO also contains some International Affairs case studies as well as special features on major events (9/11, Cuban Missile Crisis, etc…)
CIAO has both a simple keyword search feature and a more advanced search function with the ability to limit and sort by world regions or specific document type. Some sample searches revealed a wealth of information and papers on microfinance, international education, human capital, and immigration.  One nice feature is the ability to list the major policy centers and think tanks and the papers and studies they produce on international topics.  CIAO is an underused resource that deserves a second look. Find this resource on the A to Z list of e-Resources on the OWHL web page.  Stop by the library for questions or help.