Searching the web is something most of us do every day, but how effective are we at it? Many librarians study search strategies in graduate school to help patrons (and themselves!) search more effectively and efficiently. Here are some search tips for your Monday morning:
- Use Boolean logic! Boolean logic means using AND, OR, and NOT when you search. “Earth Day” AND “public libraries”, “global warming” OR “global climate change”, “Earthships” NOT “space ships”
- Make the most of Google! Google is the most widely used search engine on the web, and it has many built-in tricks that can help you. Check some of them out here: 10 Simple Google Search Tricks
- Narrow as you go! Often, it is helpful to start with broad terms to see what is out there, then narrow the field. Remember that not everyone may use the same terms to describe something, so do not be discouraged too easily!
- Talk to a librarian! Having trouble with searching? Come chat with us! We are here to help you with all your information queries.
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