More than 200 peoples and ethnic groups are indexed on the basis of different sources. Underlying data are results of field research published as ethnographic monographies, essays or manuscripts which are used as "primary data" and subject-indexed by applying a highly complex and differentiated system down to the level of single paragraphs. The indexing is done according to the "Outline of Cultural Materials" (OCM) that contains over 700 different classification elements. Additionally, a keyword search at full text level is possible. The database is updated on a regular basis.

The Library of the Max-Planck-Institute for the Study of Religious and Ethnic Diversity is a specialized library with a focus on religious studies, anthropology, political science and sociology. The library does not participate in interlibrary loans but serves as a reference library to provide literature and information, mainly to the members of the Institute.

SocINDEX is the world's most comprehensive and highest quality sociology research database. Subject headings from a 15,000 term sociology-specific thesaurus designed by expert lexicographers and extensive indexing for books, monographs, conference papers and other sources is included. Searchable cited references are also provided.