Information Resource Center

General Information

The American Information Resource Center (AIRC) is a component of the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul and is the successor to the former American Library at the Consulate General. The AIRC promotes better understanding of the United States of America by providing authoritative, relevant and timely information about current issues as well as about the people, history, culture, values and institutions of the United States of America.

AIRC resources are intended to meet the needs of

• government officials,

• media,

• non-governmental organizations,

• business community,

• leaders in Turkish society and culture,

• military,

• scholars and students,

• others groups with professional-level interest in the United States.

Our electronic resources and non-circulating print collection focus on

• international relations, defense and security issues,

• economic policies and relations,

• U.S. government agencies and institutions,

• U.S. political and legislative developments,

• civil society and democratic processes,

• social, cultural and educational issues and American society.

AIRC currently holds a collection of major databases such as Lexis-Nexis, Proquest, Factiva, First Search, Galenet which provide easy access to current and relevant information on a wide variety of subjects in addition to non-circulating print reference sources that are being regulary updated.

AIRC services go beyond the handling of specific factual questions. Electronic information packages can be prepared in response to queries or to complement special programs.

As necessary, AIRC staff brief researchers requiring in-depth assistance. PowerPoint presentations/demonstration sessions on the AIRC services and products can be arranged for groups of various size upon request.

The AIRC web site also contains a wide variety of reference material and related links. We especially recommend that you browse through the Washington File and Electronic Journals on our web site. Subject related web pages prepared by AIRC staff on various issues in focus are also among other points of interest to visit on our web site: AIRC Electronic Products.