Page 203 - DLIS007_LIBRARY AUTOMATION

Library Automation

Notes The content of periodical indexes also varies. Some are intended to cover general subjects
whereas others specialize in one field such as science or education. Some indexes include only
newspapers, some cover popular magazines, some cover journals and some represent a
combination.

Did u know? Certain indexes provide an abstract, which is a summary of the article.
Some periodical indexes are published as books, while others are available online. In either
case, these indexes are subscriptions the library maintains for its users.
Many libraries offer the printed version of the popular and well-known Reader’s Guide to Periodical
Literature, and most libraries have at least one online periodical index. Much of the information
you will need can be found in online indexes, such as ProQuest Direct, but occasionally you may
need to consult printed indexes. You might need a printed index because you are looking for
older information that isn’t available online, or you may need to use a specialized index that is
only available in print, such as the Business Periodicals Index. Increasingly, libraries are depending
on online indexes that offer full text articles.

10.4.4 Step by Step: Researching with Periodicals

Use the following steps as a guide as you begin your periodical research.
(a) Describe in writing the information you need. Clarify the time-frame of your topic. The
more you understand what you need, the easier it will be to identify relevant articles.
(b) Make a list of words and phrases which describe all aspects of the topic. Include all associated
organizations, personal names, events, laws and objects. Add to this list as your research
progresses. The list will help you approach your research from all angles.

(c) Decide which periodical index is appropriate, considering subjects and dates covered as
well as the type of material indexed.
(d) Do not always expect to find one periodical index that’s perfect for your needs. If one does
not seem adequate, try another. Researchers commonly use several.
(e) Once you have identified an article you might want to use, record the information you
will need to find the article, including the title and date or issue of the periodical, and the
title and author of the article.
(f) Libraries do not necessarily subscribe to all the periodicals included in their periodical
indexes. Use the library’s list of periodical holdings or the online catalogue to find out if
the library carries the publication and has the date you need.

(g) Articles may be requested from another campus in the Seattle Community College District.
If you need an article that is not available from any of the three campuses, talk to a
librarian at the reference desk.

(h) As you retrieve articles, look to see how helpful they are. It might be necessary to revise
your search strategy.
(i) Be sure to record bibliographic information for the articles you think you may use. This
will save time and frustration when you assemble your list of works cited.

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