A Guide to Library Research Methods [Paperback]

Thomas Mann (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 8, 1990

With today's information explosion, students, job hunters, professionals, and researchers urgently need more than just an annotated bibliography to guide them through the bewildering maze of resources now available. Responding to this need, Thomas Mann--a reference librarian at the Library of Congress--offers us A Guide to Library Research Methods.
Introducing a distinctive, new approach to the fact-finding process, this book provides not only an exceptional overview of the range of material that exists, but, more importantly, a detailed discussion of both the advantages and disadvantages of using each type of source. Mann's problem-solving technique emphasizes seven different research methods that researchers can apply to any inquiry. Used as a set of easily remembered "mental pegs," these methods enable individuals to get further into a subject more quickly, with less wasted effort. The seven research methods described include subject heading inquiries, systematic browsing, key word and citation searches, use of bibliographies, computer searches, and talking to people.
A Guide to Library Research Methods should be required reading for every individual who has ever asked the question, "Where should I start looking to find out about this?"

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This is one of the best basic guides I've seen for navigating the information channels. Thomas Mann...presents and intuitive approach to thinking about information....With this book as a map, and your reference librarian as a tour guide, you should have a smooth and fascinating journey."--The WomanSource Catalog and Review

"Extremely helpful for students planning graduate school programs--I refer to it often myself for teaching support and in my own Phd. research work."--Diane Merchant, Cedarville College

"The most useful book of this type I have seen. A welcome departure from traditional organization and most insightful in the types of research tools it cites."--Lawrence B. de Graaf, California State University, Fullerton

"Very 'user-friendly.' Particularly reliable for upper-division undergrads, who need to know about available sources and how to use them, but do not need to be overwhelmed and preached to. Of course, faculty too can profit from Mann's sound advice and impressive command of sources."--Paul Teverow, Missouri Southern State College

"A hardy resource for students who need help locating relevant sources for research papers. I recommend it highly, especially for beginning undergraduates."--Jane D. McLead, Univ. of Minnesota

"What a wonderful book--I have been waiting for a book like this for a very long time. I will make this mandatory reading for all history majors and graduate students."--Nina Mjagkij, Ball State University

"The savviest such guide I have ever seen--bracingly irreverent and brimming with wisdom. For any researcher who values resourcefulness, precision, comprehensiveness, and his own time, this book is a godsend. Mann's explanations of why systematic browsing is an essential part of a scholarly search, and how using the telephone to reach experts is a valid complement to print sources, are liberating."--Ronald Gross, author of The Independent Scholar's Handbook

"An excellent introduction to research methodology. Mann's explanations are clear and concise, and his examples and examinations of reference tools are easy to follow, well-chosen and will benefit those who need guidance in general research."--Academic Library Book Review

"A marvelous guide for anyone attempting research, given the new maze of resources cataloging the information explosion."--Idea Bank

"I have used libraries almost every week of my life for the past thirty years. I thought I was good at it. Now that I have read Thomas Mann's imaginative, practical book, I know how little I really knew. Thanks to Thomas Mann, I am using libraries more efficiently and creatively than ever before."--Steve Weinberg, Executive Director, Investigative Reporters and Editors

About the Author

About the Author:
Thomas Mann is a general reference librarian in the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (March 8, 1990)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195049446
• ISBN-13: 978-0195049442
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #345,857 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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