In a tight 89 pages, Terry Ann Jankowski summarizes a semester-long reference course. Although written for the nascent health sciences librarian, Jankowski has covered the basics of reference: the interview, building a search, reviewing and evaluating results, running an improved search, managing citations, etc. Her long-time familiarity with health sciences means she focuses on what these steps would like in PubMed or Embase, but these skills are transferable to every reference interaction. . . .Overall, this work would be a nice supplement for health science librarians but also any head of reference/public services looking to keep a local collection of reference training materials. * American Reference Books Annual *
Expert Searching in the Google Age is a practical, comprehensive guide to literature searching for healthcare information professionals, serving both as an introduction (the target audience being beginners and new professionals) and a refresher for more experienced searchers, the slim volume belying its comprehensive but simple coverage.... It would serve a useful companion for someone honing their search skills, or for a more experienced searcher to dip into for reassurance when needed, or merely to further appreciate the development of literature searching from the 1960s to present, and explore the development of key techniques a little further, following up on the well-selected further reading and references when required. * CILIP Health Libraries Group Newsletter *
Expert Searching in the Google Age is filled with very practical, useable suggestions on how to approach everything from conducting a reference interview to understanding the nuances of search construction. Terry Ann Jankowski covers topics in an easily accessible writing style - not a simple feat given the complex nature of searching. This book has something for every level of searcher, whether brand new to the profession or a seasoned librarian. -- Jamie Gray, Director for Research and Instruction, Lane Medical Library & Knowledge Management Center, Stanford University Medical Center
In the world of instant access to information, it is even more important for librarians to develop their skills as expert searchers in order to find the best evidence for clinical decision making. This practical, well-crafted guide distills a complex topics into understandable steps with examples, checklists and exercises-all designed for applying the learning. This book is a "must have" for health sciences librarians, library school students or other information professionals interested in becoming an expert searcher. -- Elaine Martin, DA, director Lamar Soutter Library, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
Expert searchers and those just beginning the journey of becoming expert searchers will benefit from this publication which strikes a good balance between general information and detailed information about a complex process. The newbie will benefit from reading the volume from front to back and the expert will be rewarded with reminders of practical hints and an updated bibliography from an author with a vast knowledge of the process and with many years of experience of 'doing' expert searches and teaching others. -- J. Michael Homan, Emeritus Director of Libraries, Mayo Clinic
