MIT 144F: Week4
OPAC Search Suggestions prompted by the Wallace (1993) Article

1. Get to know an OPAC's features and quirks before searching.
   Ask yourself the following questions:
   1. What fields are searched with the "keyword" search feature?
   2. How does one access the "Subject" field?
      • How accurately does the Library of Congress Subject Heading have to be entered?
   3. How does one access the "Title" field?
      • How much flexibility is there in searching titles? Can you use boolean, truncation, etc. to exclusively search the "Title" field? (N.B. this suggestion applies to all fields.)
   4. How does one access the "Author" field?
      • How are names entered?
      • Is there authority control?
      • Are there authors that have slipped through authority control?
   5. What other fields are available and how are they accessed?
2. Have a copy of the LCSH nearby.
3. Do not "fixate" on one search technique.
4. Adopt a "browse" approach rather than a "search and find" approach.
5. "Pearl growing" highly recommended:
   Always examine records for:
   • alternative (correct?) spellings
   • useful call numbers
   • useful alternative subject headings
   • other authors writing in the area
6. Watch out for "monster" terms.
7. Watch your spelling.