The Oxford Guide to Library Research
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"The information world has undergone drastic changes since the publication of the 3rd edition of The Oxford Guide to Library Research in 2005, and Thomas Mann, a veteran reference…
Book Summary
The Oxford Guide to Library Research by Thomas Mann is a comprehensive handbook for conducting thorough research beyond open internet sources. It presents nine universal search methods applicable to any subject, teaching researchers how to leverage library databases, controlled vocabularies, and expert techniques to uncover significant resources often missed by simple keyword searches. This revised edition addresses the drastic changes in the information world since 2005.
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About The Oxford Guide to Library Research
In this extensively revised fourth edition, Thomas Mann, a veteran reference librarian at the Library of Congress, addresses the drastic changes in the information landscape since 2005. The book answers two critical questions: what significant research resources are missed when relying solely on the open Internet, and what alternative subject searching methods—unavailable on the Web—are more efficient for gaining a comprehensive overview of a topic. Structured around nine universal search methods applicable to any subject area, the guide explains how to find and combine search terms, use controlled vocabularies, and make databases reveal relevant material even without precise keywords. With concrete examples of what to do and what not to do, it equips researchers with the confidence that they have not overlooked important sources, emphasizing library-based resources that remain essential for substantive research.
Who should read The Oxford Guide to Library Research?
This book is essential for graduate students, academic researchers, and serious scholars who need to conduct comprehensive literature reviews. It is also invaluable for librarians, information professionals, and advanced undergraduates seeking to move beyond basic internet searches. Anyone who wants to master library research techniques and discover resources not available on the open web will benefit from Mann's expert guidance.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Provides nine universal search methods applicable across all disciplines
- ✓ Written by a veteran Library of Congress reference librarian with deep expertise
- ✓ Offers concrete examples of effective and ineffective research strategies
- ✓ Extensively revised to address post-2005 changes in the information world
- ✓ Emphasizes overlooked library resources that enable comprehensive research
Cons
- ✗ May be too detailed for casual researchers or beginners
- ✗ Focuses heavily on traditional library tools, which some may find dated
- ✗ Assumes access to a large research library with subscription databases
- ✗ Dense text with limited visual aids or quick-reference summaries
- ✗ Primarily US-centric in its examples and resource recommendations
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Frequently asked questions
Is this book only for academic researchers?
While it is particularly valuable for academic researchers, the methods and techniques are applicable to anyone conducting in-depth research, including journalists, historians, and professionals who need reliable information beyond internet searches.
How does this edition differ from the previous one?
The fourth edition has been extensively revised to reflect the drastic changes in the information world since 2005, including updates on digital resources, search technologies, and the evolving role of libraries.
Does the book cover online databases?
Yes, it discusses how to effectively use subscription databases and other library resources that are not freely available on the open web, including techniques for searching them efficiently.
Is this book suitable for beginners?
It is most beneficial for those with some research experience, but beginners can also learn a great deal, especially if they are motivated to develop advanced research skills.
What are the nine methods of searching?
The nine methods include techniques such as using controlled vocabularies, citation searching, browsing library shelves, and consulting subject encyclopedias. Each method is explained with practical examples.
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