Electronic Search Services

The Reference and Loan Library provides electronic search services as an integral part of providing reference services. In responding to requests for information, the staff will use all the resources of the library to respond to the request, including conducting a database search if this is the most effective means of filling a request.

The Reference and Loan Library subscribes to online databases provided by DIALOG, WILSONLINE, and WESTLAW. Reference staff are skilled Internet searchers and maintain extensive lists of specialized Internet resources.

As in all reference requests, it is important for the Reference and Loan Library staff to have as much information as possible before beginning a database search. In referring a request, library staff should list all sources which have been checked and any information or key terms which might assist in a reference search. If no initial reference work has been done, a database search will not normally be conducted.

If the library staff feel that a database search is required, or if a patron has requested a computer search, they are encouraged to call the Reference and Loan Library staff (608-224-6168) or toll free at (1-888-542-5543) to discuss the subject or reference request and the feasibility of doing a database search. Written requests also may be referred through regular reference referral channels. They should include information on sources already checked.

Results of a database search will generally be a printout of citations, and may include abstracts of articles. If journals or other sources of the full articles are owned at the Reference and Loan Library, a photocopy of the articles may be sent along with a printout of citations. Articles from full-text newspaper databases will be printed out in full. The patron may request copies of additional articles cited on the printout through established interlibrary loan channels.

For complicated or extensive searches, searches on demand in specific subject areas, or for searches where immediate turnaround time is vital, other computer search services are available for a fee and may be more appropriate. For example, for scientific information or for searches for business and industry clientele, patrons may contact Wisconsin TechSearch directly (608-262-5913) to get a cost estimate. Attorneys or individuals doing legal research may contact the University of Wisconsin Law Library Outlaw Service (608-262-3394 or 608-262-2856) or the State Law Library (608-266-1600 or 1-800-322-9755). Requests for medical information may be referred to the University of Wisconsin Ebling Library (608-262-6524 or 1-800-442-6471).

For more information about electronic search services from the Reference and Loan Library, Wisconsin librarians may call the library toll-free at 1-888-542-5543 (menu option #5 is reference). Individual library users should contact their local public library.

For questions about this information, contact Shiela A. Pollock (608) 224-5395

Last updated on 3/31/2009 2:08:29 PM