A set of basic principles accompanied by numerous illustrated search examples will empower students and librarians to search effectively online, whether or not they have ever encountered the database in question.

To succeed as searchers, all librarians require both a basic idea of how databases are put together, and a repository of concepts and techniques to draw upon. With such essentials well in hand, the searcher can plunge into almost any database that comes along and master its intricacies (and idiosyncrasies) in relatively short order. Bell's conversational style, coupled with her Searcher's Toolbox, promises increased flexibility and adaptability. This book will prove a handy guide for librarians in every conceivable information environment and across all levels of experience.

The ability to understand and navigate online environments and databases is fast becoming an essential skill for librarians. Now in a revised and updated edition, this book provides a handy guide for librarians in every conceivable information environment and across all levels of experience.

Suzanne S. Bell is adjunct instructor for the School of Information Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, as well as business librarian and administrator for the institutional repository at the University of Rochester, NY.

Reviews
"Among the plethora of books about online reference for librarians and graduate students, this one stands out as notably useful, and perhaps even essential. . . . Teaching faculty will certainly be hard pressed to find a better textbook. Professionals, especially those like the reviewer who spend only a few hours per week in searching, will appreciate the book's comprehensiveness and clear directions. . . . It is heartily recommended for all libraries, especially those without the first edition."—Catholic Library World

"Published in 2009, this work provides library professionals with an understanding of the basics of the continuously evolving field of database searching in today's libraries. The copious illustrations, suggested readings and the recap sections in relevant chapters are quite handy. The toolkits are useful for both the beginning and the experienced professional librarian, as well. The publication would essentially be a good addition to a professional collection. It will also be useful to professionals who are called upon to do online databases searching on a continuous basis and are unable to keep up with their reading of professional literature." —Library Times International

"Bell's revision of this online searching guide will be invaluable to anyone starting out or looking for a refresher course on this topic. In clear concise language, the author covers everything from Boolean searching to using specific topic-based databases. . . . This easy-to-use manual, written with just a touch of humor and not a drop of condescension, is sure to be embraced by librarians of all skill levels--including the technology challenged. . . . This resource would make an ideal textbook for a library science course on online searching or simply for individuals brushing up on their searching skills."—VOYA