A practical handbook in nontechnical language designed as a quick reference guide to help online searchers obtain information on accessing online databases. Part 1 provides essential information on today's electronic technologies such as selecting software and hardware for personal computers. Part 2 deals with major online vendors including DIALOG, BRS, ORBIT, and VU/Text. Part 3 introduces various databases likely to be of general interest. Each chapter provides lengthy analyses and guidelines that will unlock the research potential of modern information technologies. Useful ``Online Tips'' on a variety of subjects appear on nearly every page. Recommended for academic, public, and specialized libraries with special interest in online searching. Samuel T. Huang, Northern Illinois Univ. Libs., Dekalb (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
CHOICE Review
For many personal computer users this book may appear at first glance to be a confusing mix. But Glossbrenner has sorted it all out in his introductory chapters, explaining the intent, content, and potential use of each of the 18 chapters and 2 appendixes. The author's well-known ``Online Tips'' appear throughout whenever he wants to convey something extraneous but useful. The content of the boxes becomes increasingly important to the user as the work progresses. This information is indexed and the index is ample. Each chapter requires intensive study. The book is divided into three parts: (1) six chapters on what to expect from the vendors; (2) five chapters on in-depth coverage of DIALOG, BRS, NEXIS, ORBIT and the Dow Jones News/Retrieval Service, VU/TEXT, NewsNet, and Wilsonline; and (3) seven chapters by type of media: books, magazines, news media; directories of people, places, and organizations; investment and competitive intelligence; and sales and marketing information. Appendix A is devoted to importing information; Appendix B pertains to how to locate other databases. Recommended for all libraries.-D.B. Lilley, East Texas State University
Booklist Review
Computer pro Glossbrenner, author of The Complete Handbook of Personal Computer Communications (Booklist 82:942 Mr 1 86), among other works, offers a sound guide to the burgeoning world of online electronic databases. The author provides informative descriptions of a wide range of databases that present information related to business, investing, government publications, specialized mailing lists, and general fact-finding. Most importantly, Glossbrenner instructs readers on how to determine whether the information they need is available online, how to save time and money in the search process, and how to know when to secure the services of a professional. Resources with addresses and phones numbers and handy tips on personal computing are deposited throughout the text. A valuable handbook for professional information seekers or amateurs desiring to increase their knowledge of the vast online world. To be indexed. MAB. [OCLC] 86-27945
