U-M Debate Institutes

We are glad that you are part of the U-M Debate Institutes this summer and are here to help you with your research.  This guide will provide you with information about navigating the Shapiro Library, finding and searching library databases, and using the library's vast digital and physical collections.  

2025-2026 Debate Topic

Resolved: The United States federal government should significantly increase its exploration and/or development of the Arctic.

Most online library resources require your umich password. If you have trouble logging in, speak with your debate coach/faculty.

Be sure to visit the page in this guide titled Frequently Asked Questions for information about general library access and policies, and the Academic Searching for help with searching databases effectively.

To get help or ask questions: 

• Use Ask a Librarian, the U-M Library instant message reference service, to be connected with a trained reference librarian.
• Steve Griffes (sgriffes) - library access and spaces, or libraryoutreachavdept@umich.edu if out of office
• Rocio Lopez (lopezroc) - reference and research questions
• CASDLManagers@umich.edu - library account questions