INFORMATION & RESEARCH TIPS

1. Encyclopedias, almanacs, atlases, specialized reference books (chronologies, quotations, factfinders, etc.), Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature, and the non-fiction collection.
2. Grolier and Encarta encyclopedias, NORPAC (public access catalog - includes inhouse collection), ProQuest and Electric Library (databases online), and the Chronicle of the 20th Century.
3. The Internet (see ONLINE RESOURCES)
4. ASK THE LIBRARIAN!

1. Always use book and encyclopedia indexes.
2. Keywords: think of appropriate subject headings. Use specific terms, not generalities. Using too broad a term may result in too much material or reduce chance for success. (Example: use Chevrolet instead of automobile)
3. Database searches - Computers will find all "matches" or "hits" to the term used. The term could anywhere in the title, subject or description. To obtain results more efficiently, type the appropriate term. (Example: use bulldog instead of dog) Remember: the word could appear in ANY article or entry and may not be at all related to your need.
4. Boolean searches on computer programs:
   1. Use OR if uncertain of proper term.
      (England or Britain)
   2. Use AND to narrow the field.
      (Adirondack and mountains)
   3. Use NOT to eliminate unwanted "matches".
      (Martin and Luther not King)
5. If you need help, please ask. You wouldn't believe how much "information training" the librarian has had!