Yes, it is possible to create alerts from within some of the databases.

Below are the steps to do this from EBSCO and ProQuest databases.

Note: With any of your searches (in either EBSCO or ProQuest), remember to limit it to the type of publication you are interested in—e.g., newspapers—otherwise you’ll get many unwanted results sent to you. 

EBSCO:

1. If you have not already done so, you will need to create a “My EBSCO” account in order to create alerts.
2. Conduct the search for you wish to receive alerts about newly added articles--see image below. (Or, above your result list, and under the Share options, choose “Email alert”)
3. Click “Create Alert”
4. Sign in to your “My EBSCO” if you have not already done so, set your desired notification frequency and save.

See also:

• Tutorial from EBSCO’s website: https://youtu.be/sGU-kYh0-vs
• EBSCO’s instructions (you may need to login w/WUSTL Key): https://support-ebsco-com.libproxy.wustl.edu/help/index.php?help_id=1164
• There is also an option for to create an RSS feed

ProQuest:

The ProQuest method is similar to EBSCO’s. Conduct your search, and click “Save search/alert.” Then you get a pop up box to set all your alert parameters.

You can create an alert without making a ProQuest “My Research” account, however, you are limited in your options for frequency and cannot make any future changes. So while not required, it seems like a very good idea to set up a “My Research” account anyway because then you’ll be able to manage your saved searches and adjust them as needed.

See also:

https://libguides.wustl.edu/researchalerts