If you're researching a controversial topic (or trying to decide on one to research), check out either CQ Researcher or Opposing viewpoints. Both databases focus on covering multiple sides of controversial issues.
Reading through a few recent newspapers can help you come up with topics for a speech. The library has some newspapers in print. These are located on the first floor across from the Ask Us Desk. Many more newspapers are available electronically through the Library. The easiest way to find electronic versions of articles is by searching databases.
U.S. Newspapers
To find articles from U.S. Newspapers, try searching the America's News database. On the main screen, you can choose newspapers from a particular state, such as Colorado. You can find major newspapers that are published in a particular state (such as the New York Times) by choosing that state instead. To search national newspapers such as USA Today and The Wall Street Journal, choose "National" on the list of states. (It's in the middle of the list, just as if it were a state.)
International Newspapers
To find articles from international newspapers, use newspaper databases. Start by choosing the New tab, then selecting Major World Newspapers on the Sources menu.