I am researching UN documents. When should I use the United Nations Digital Library? When should I use ODS?

The right database can make research on UN documents quicker and more rewarding. 

If you are just starting research, check out the FAQ How do I start research on UN documentation? (linked below).

If you have some experience and want to optimize your search by choosing the best search option, here are some hints.

Choose the United Nations Digital Library to:

• search by topic
• search on metadata (information about the document)
  • title
  • author
  • document symbol
  • agenda item
  • subject
  • UN body name
• search for a certain type of UN document, even if there is no distinctive symbol pattern
  • resolutions
  • meeting records
  • annual/sessional reports
  • reports of the Secretary-General

Choose the Official Document System (ODS) to:

• search by symbol
• search on the full-text of documents
• search for documents that cite previous documents

Choose the UN Yearbook to: 

• start historic research
• find document symbols
• find additional information about a document and the context in which it was considered

Choose the Index to Proceedings to:

• find all documents related to an agenda item in a given year or session
• find the meeting number and symbol for a meeting held on a certain date
• find statements prior to 1983

Each researcher develops personal strategies for working with UN documents: there are many approaches that get results. All the tools listed can be used in many additional ways-- this list highlights some of the key ways to use the various resources.