Searching Dialog: Selecting Databases to Search

Scope

• Selecting the appropriate database(s) to search requires considerable thought because of the:
  • Number and variety of databases that Dialog offers.
  • Sometimes narrow focus of many databases.
  • High potential costs of searching one or more databases.
• There are, though, a number of resources and strategies that will facilitate database selection.

Resources & strategies for selecting databases

• Printed Resources:
  • Dialog Database Catalog
    • Review database descriptions.
    • Look at the OneSearch categories to find the names of related databases.
  • Bluesheets
    • There are set of these at the reference desk.
    • They are also available online.
  • Database Manuals
    • These, unfortunately, must be obtained from the database publishers.
    • Prices range from free to $50 or more.
  • Recommendations by information professionals in professional journals.
• Online Resources
  • OneSearch categories
  • Dialog Bluesheets
  • Database-specific manuals
  • Recommendations in online forums.

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