Whether it’s making a big purchase, planning to relocate your family, trying to make those major house or car repairs on your own, or just getting control of your finances, it’s important to know where to look for information.
These Consumer Education resources can help you get started. And don’t forget, you can always contact a Research Librarian by phone (614-486-3342), email ([email protected]), or in person for assistance in using our databases and ebooks.
Indexes / Databases
The following are part of the Upper Arlington Public Library’s premium resources. Unless you are in one of our library locations, you will need your UA Library card number and PIN in order to access them. Please note: Links to our databases open in a new window or tab in your browser.
- ConsumerReports.org – Provides full access to the Consumer Reports website for product ratings and buying advice, plus exclusive online content such as new product evaluations, consumer reviews and much more.
- Chilton Auto Repair Manuals – Provides detailed repair information, photographs, diagrams, and maintenance tables for cars, trucks, vans and SUVs.
Do-It-Yourself Sources – The following databases include distinct “how-to” guides for projects like car repair, home improvement, and much more.
See a list of all of the UA Library’s consumer-related subscription databases and eBooks.
Reference Resources
Reference Books
These are just a few examples of the consumer-related resources that are available for use in the Research Department.
- J.D. Power Official Used Car Prices and J.D. Power Older Used Car Prices – Find at the Research Desk of the Tremont Branch Library.
- Old Cars Report Price Guide
- Buyer Aware: Harnessing our Consumer Power for a Safe, Fair, and Transcaregiver Marketplace
Journals / Magazines
Some current issues of the following magazine and journal titles are available for checking out, while in some cases older issues may be accessed at the Tremont Branch’s Research Department. Follow the links to the catalog or see a librarian for more information.
Product Reviews
Automotive
Home Repair
Websites
These recommended websites are chosen by a Reference Librarian as reliable sources of information for consumers:
General Consumer Sites
- AARP
- Federal Trade Commission Home Page
- Food and Drug Administration
- Ohio Consumers’ Counsel
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Information on Businesses or Charities
- BankRate Monitor
- Better Business Bureau
- Charity Navigator
- Give.org
- Instant Insurance Quotes
- Ohio Dept. of Insurance – Consumer Resources
Product Reviews
Automotive
Housing and Relocation
- Nursing Home Compare
- Ohio Franklin County Auditor’s Home Page
- Ohio Rental Housing Locator
- Realtor.Com
- US News & World Report – Best Places to Live
- Zillow
Search Starters
Click on the following links to see a list of materials the library has in its collection for consumers: