required for a reference list. Record numbers, similar to call numbers for books,
are numbers assigned by the information source and are unique to each record.
Depending on the information source, other fields of information may be
available for the citation. Subject terms and subject headings are often listed. An
abstract may be included and is helpful to quickly determine the item’s content.
Sometimes references cited in the item are also included in the format. Reference
information can be helpful for locating other relevant information. Other fields
might be added to the record, such as text language, type of publication, or des-
ignation of whether the research is evidence based or peer reviewed. Whereas all
databases offer citations, these come in three formats: citation only, citation with
full content, or a mix of both. Because print indexes are citation only, an additional
step is required to obtain the full content. Most electronic information sources
are mixed. Very few databases provide only full-content records, and they are the
exception rather than the rule. Because librarians understand the need to have
full content available as easily as possible, systems have been created to meet that
need. These systems basically tie citations in one database to full content available
in other databases or to print resources within the library. If a hyperlink in the
record is available to link to full content, no additional step is needed.
When items are not available in full content within any database or within
library print holdings, a copy of the item can be retrieved through the interli-
brary loan system. For your convenience, most records provide a hyperlink to
interlibrary loan request forms so that requests can be made immediately when
you determine that an item is not available locally. Most of the time, this service
is subsidized by the library and is available at no cost. Because it usually takes
7 to 10 days after making a request to receive materials, it is prudent to begin
searches well before deadlines. Journal articles are usually copied and sent to the
requester to keep. Books, videos, and other such items are sent on loan and must
be returned to the lending library. Because each library’s procedure is slightly
different, it is important to understand how to request materials prior to needing
this service. You might not receive everything requested because copyright issues,
limited numbers of available copies, and other restrictions can affect requests.
KEY TERMS
subject headings:
A set of controlled
vocabulary used to
classify materials;
organization
of databases
according to topic
interlibrary loan:
A service whereby
libraries provide
items in their
collections to each
other upon request;
lending of items
through a network
of librariesTrue/False- All libraries use the same system for organizing their collections.
- Tables of contents and indexes can be useful to narrow searches for evidence.
- Knowing key terms used in an index can facilitate effective searches.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 4-3
How did you do? 1. F; 2. T; 3. T4.3 How Sources Are Organized 109