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Text and Data Mining: Support

This guide provides guidance for users interested in doing text and data mining. It includes data sources, support options, and best practices for using content licensed by the University Libraries.

Library Data Services

Library Data Services caters to researchers interested in working with data, mapping, texts, visualization, and technology. Many of these services are available online. Davis Library Data Services, located on the second floor of Davis Library, offers:

  • A computing lab with specialized software for GIS and data visualization & analysis.
  • Walk-in assistance provided by knowledgeable student consultants during set hours
  • Consultations with specialists for more in-depth inquiries (by appointment).
  • Spaces for collaboration and presentation, complete with white boards and external displays.
  • Technology short courses and programs that promote digital scholarship.

Where to get Text-Mining Support

Support from Subject Librarians

Subject librarians can help those interesting in text or data mining in a variety of ways, including:

  • assistance refining research questions
  • advising on appropriate approaches, and
  • direction to resources and other librarians that can help with implementation.

Identify your subject librarian on the Libraries' E-Research by Discipline page, or on the Health Sciences Library's Connect with a Subject Expert page.

Support from the Licensing Team

Every vendor's policies on text and data mining are different. Often, even if a vendor prohibits text or data mining under the University's license, researchers can negotiate for permission, sometimes for a fee. Depending on the researcher's needs, The University Libraries' Licensing Team can:

  • help researchers understand licensing terms
  • provide contact information for individual vendors, or
  • lobby specific vendors for text or data mining abilities.

Researchers can contact the Licensing Team by emailing lib_access@unc.edu.

Support from Library Data Services

Text and data mining can be daunting. Library Data Services staff can assist researchers in designing and implementing technical approaches and suggest appropriate ways to analyze data. Connect with us!

Also check our events schedule for recurring sessions on programming with R, Python, and more.

Further Resources