EBSCO databases are created with the intention of providing the most complete research solution for a given audience or a particular subject area. One major factor in reaching this objective is the value brought about through database content, including indexing, abstracts and full text. As the largest intermediary between libraries and publishers, EBSCO offers the highest quantity and quality of sources in its databases. This content includes not only the most current coverage, but just as importantly, the greatest archival coverage.

EBSCO has done more than any other aggregator to provide backfile coverage for the most highly ranked journals in a variety of subject areas. EBSCO's backfile initiatives can be broken into two main categories - expansion and enhancement.

In terms of expansion, archives of hundreds of key journals in various disciplines have been added to several EBSCO databases. These journal expansions bring coverage as far back as the first published issue, and most often include PDF coverage. Now EBSCO databases provide full text coverage of journals dating back to the late 1800s.

With regard to backfile enhancements, EBSCO has undergone an enormous project to greatly improve the quality of the bibliographic records in key databases. This project was undertaken retrospectively, while current additions to databases also receive the same high quality treatment to the records as they are added. All applicable journals in affected databases contain longer abstracts, more detailed subject treatment and additional indexing, making for the highest quality bibliographic records.

The following are examples of backfiles in EBSCO databases, and how they complement the archives offered through a major company specializing in backfile coverage.

• Backfile Coverage in EBSCO's Business Source Complete
  
• Backfile Coverage in EBSCO's SocINDEX with Full Text