### Using the Seattle Times Historical Archive The Seattle Public Library offers search access to *The Seattle Times* database (covering 1985 to the present). Since *Luann* debuted in March 1985, almost the entire run of the comic strip is preserved within these archives. To access this database: 1. Visit the Seattle Public Library website (spl.org) and navigate to the "Online Resources" section. 2. Select "Genealogy & History" or "Newspapers & Magazines" to locate *The Seattle Times* database (hosted by platforms like NewsBank). 3. Log in using your library card number and PIN. 4. Use the search bar to search for "Luann" along with a specific date or year (e.g., "Luann December 1995"). ### Search Tips for Daily Comic Strips Newspaper databases index text, which can sometimes make finding image-based comic strips tricky. To optimize your search: * **Search by Date:** If you are looking for a strip from a specific day, search for the newspaper issue published on that exact date rather than searching for the keyword "Luann." Once you open the digital replica of that day's newspaper, navigate to the classifieds or comics section. * **Use Page Image View:** Ensure you select the "Image" or "PDF" view of the newspaper rather than the "Text-Only" view. The text-only version of a newspaper archive will not display the comic strip illustrations. ## Finding Luann Anthology Books via Digital Media Platforms

If you prefer reading *Luann* in book format rather than searching day-by-day newspaper archives, the Seattle Public Library offers digital access to compiled comic anthologies. These collections group months or years of daily strips into cohesive books. ### Libby by OverDrive SPL partners with Libby (OverDrive) to offer a massive collection of e-books and digital comics. 1. Open the Libby app or visit the SPL OverDrive portal. 2. Search for "Luann" or "Greg Evans." 3. Borrow available digital anthologies directly to your smartphone, tablet, or e-reader. ### Hoopla Digital Hoopla is another digital media service available to SPL cardholders that features a robust selection of graphic novels and comic collections. Hoopla operates on a pay-per-use model for the library, meaning there are no waitlists for titles. If a *Luann* anthology is listed on Hoopla, you can borrow and read it instantly. ## Accessing Physical Archives and Microfilm

For strips that may not be easily legible in digital newspaper databases, or for readers who prefer a tangible research experience, the Seattle Public Library’s Central Library in downtown Seattle houses physical archives. ### Microfilm and Microfiche The Central Library retains microfilm rolls of historical local and national newspapers. If you are looking for a rare printing of a *Luann* strip from the late 1980s or 1990s, you can visit the library’s history department. Staff members can assist you in loading the microfilm reels for the appropriate newspaper dates and using the digital scanners to save or print the comic strips. ### Physical Book Collections You can search the main SPL catalog for physical copies of *Luann* treasury books and anthologies. If the books are located at a different branch, you can place a hold online and have them delivered to your nearest neighborhood branch for pickup. ## Requirements for Accessing SPL Digital Resources

To use any of the digital databases, Libby, Hoopla, or newspaper archives mentioned above, you must have an active Seattle Public Library card. * **Eligibility:** Library cards are free to all residents of Seattle and King County, as well as residents of neighboring library systems that share a reciprocal agreement. * **Digital Cards:** If you do not have a physical card, you can apply for an Instant Digital Card on the SPL website to gain immediate access to online databases and e-comics.