Contents

Electronic library catalogues

Databases

The Internet and World Wide Web

Printed resources

Librarian services

About this module

This module explains the tools that you can use to find engineering information at Glasgow and Strathclyde. The module begins by introducing the electronic library catalogues. It then introduces you to a range of modern approaches to finding information such as online databases and the World Wide Web. Finally, the traditional sources such as catalogues and indexes are outlined, and the services which are available from the library staff are explained.

The module consists of short units based around the four teaching aims below. Each unit is self-contained. As a researcher in engineering you have an interest in knowing all the different tools for finding information that are available to you, so it is worth beginning with the traditional tools and then following the material in the sequence given. If you just want to examine what is available in a specific area, you can use the Contents list in the left-hand column to go direct to relevant units. The module does not deal with specific search techniques. For these you should go to Module 1, Managing Your Information for Research.

Each unit contains  activities, some of which require you to practice using skills and techniques with software such as on-line databases. For these you have to follow links in the text which will take you to the software concerned. You should make an effort to perform these activities, and to compare your results with the specimen answers given. You are strongly advised to carry out these activities as they are there to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Aims of the module

These are the module's teaching aims. Students should be able to:

1. Use the online library catalogues

2. Use a range of on-line and CD-ROM databases

3. Use  the WWW to find engineering information

4. Use traditional library sources and services