Offers reflections and guidance on network navigation. The history of Internet growth and development, adding information to the network, guidelines for network behavior, and learning to use networks are covered. The results of the May 1993 "Internet Hunt" for 10 pieces of information and the pathways used to find the information are…

Compares traditional online interview with the presearch counseling session (process whereby a librarian, acting in an advisory role, assists client searcher in devising his/her search strategy, before that searcher goes online) and presents a one-step model of a presearch counseling session. An online self-service worksheet and 102-item…

Describes the benefits of using DIALOG's OneSearch in conjunction with DIALINDEX when searching online databases. Interdisciplinary searching on multiple databases is discussed, time and cost comparisons are briefly addressed, and steps involved in a simple search and in a complex search are detailed. (LRW)

Discussion of online searching focuses on the first three of seven stages of searching: (1) the reference interview, including user needs, the search request, and the user's expectations; (2) the tactical overview, including institutional control and cost and time factors; and (3) database selection considerations, including relevance,…

This conference paper addresses the abundance of information delivery choices available to academic library online searchers. Following a review of changes and choices that have developed during the past decade, the paper suggests 10 ways for the searcher to keep up to date in this fast changing field: (1) read subject-related journals, system…

Explores ethical issues for online searchers that are exacerbated by the searcher's gatekeeper function--searcher competence, searcher bias, inaccurate search results, misuse of search results by client, and privacy and confidentiality. A model for ethical decision making is presented and a list of guidelines for ethical conduct is suggested. (EJS)

Argues that the selection of a database is a significant factor in the success and cost effectiveness of an online search, and provides guidelines for determining whether the content of a database is relevant for a particular search and whether the database is accessible, affordable, and suitable for the search. (LAE)

Reviews findings of formal studies and experiential accounts of teaching online searching and, on basis of past research, recommends guidelines for school media specialists designing curriculum for instruction in online searching. Five types of online training are noted: vendor, database producer, course-based, self-instruction, locally designed…

Discusses information malpractice and describes unethical behaviors that information consultants and librarians should be aware of. Guidelines for proper practice are presented, including be sure you are competent to provide services in areas you say you are; take continuing education courses; protect client confidentiality; present reliable…