Carolina Library Services

CaroLib On-line Search Service

Description of the service

CLS has access to hundreds of external databases that contain information of use to anyone engaged in research. A computer search of these databases allows a researcher to compile a bibliography or data set pertinent to a specific topic. With a search specialist, one can search for the most up-to-date information in business, science & technology, medicine & pharmacology, engineering, agriculture, and computer technology.

Why use the service?

The On-line Search Service can be used to:

Compile a reading list.

Determine the state of the art in one's area of interest.

Identify and locate experts in a subject.

Obtain numerical or statistical information.

Create mailing lists.

What are the advantages?

Up-to-date. On-line databases can be more current than print indexes. Some files are updated weekly. The computerized version is available before the print counterpart.

Search complex topics quickly. Bibliographies on specialized topics are easily created by combining search terms. Some examples include pesticide residues in vegetables, or CAD/CAM applications in automobile assembly.

Saves time. A number of years can be scanned in seconds.

Increased access points. In addition to author's name(s) and subject headings; keywords in titles, company name, journal titles, dates, SIC codes, language, publication type, CAS Registry Numbers, etc., are searchable on some databases.

What are the limitations?

Most databases only cover the early 1970's to present.

Not all indexes are available on-line.

Some databases are very expensive to search.

The computer matches only the terms you select.

What are the results?

An on-line search provides either a bibliography or, sometimes, a set of facts. Each bibliographic citation includes author, title, source, and an abstract, if desired. The text of the articles are not printed. The bibliography may include journal articles, conference proceedings, government reports, technical papers, and books.

CLS can also obtain copies of the articles cited, if needed, through our Document Delivery Service.

What does a search cost?

The cost of a search depends on three factors: a) the database(s) used; b) the number and format of citations requested; and c) the length of the search. Searches can often be limited by date, language, or type of citation.