Discovery layers provide a simplified interface for searching library resources. Libraries with limited finances make decisions about retaining indexing and abstracting databases when similar information is available in discovery layers. These decisions should be informed by student success at finding quality information as well as satisfaction…

This article compares "Current Index to Journals in Education" (CIJE) with "Education Index" by article type and reveals pronounced differences in indexing practices. Implications for educational and interdisciplinary research, reference services, index selection, and library instruction are discussed. (Author)

Directed toward students in freshman English courses, this guide to the basic skills in using the library is composed of three broad units: (1) orientation to the library, including computer-output microfilm, card catalogs, and location of materials; (2) reference books, including use of the dictionary, encyclopedias, and the vertical file; and…

Intended to familiarize students with the Melville Library at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and provide guidelines for conducting research in American politics, this workbook is divided into 10 chapters: (1) The Author-Title Catalog; (2) How To Find Books on Your Topic Using the Subject Catalog; (3) General Periodical Literature;…

This article suggests three ways to enhance undergraduate periodical use assignments to foster conceptual skills students need when they undertake complex research projects. Discussion covers scholarly or professional literature versus popular literature, differentiation among points of view and differing interpretations of facts, and use of…

This document provides an overview of the concepts and processes behind reference services and the most important sources consulted in answering common reference questions. The book is divided into two parts. Part 1 deals with concepts and theory. It covers ethical aspects of reference service, the reference interview, the principles and goals of…

Designed to introduce education students to the basic library resources in the field, this self-paced workbook assumes a basic knowledge of the library and its resources. Each section in the eight-chapter workbook discusses a particular type of reference material and sample entries are provided when appropriate. Eleven assignments (two multiple…