Net Library

We have two eighth grade students who need information on the Korean War for their National History Day project.  Searching by subject 57 results were produced in Net Library.  Many were not in the collection but Korean War: Almanac and Primary Sources was.  Opening up the “viewing this eBook”, I found the library’s copy was currently in use so I asked for notification when the title became available, which was a very easy process.  I also sought out information on the subject of Alzheimer’s.  The search netted several eBooks, but I was very disappointed in the copyright dates…everything was older than 2001.  Of the 5,471 eBooks  “In our collection”, only two books have a 2005 copyright and 155 have a copyright after 2000.

The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America would be a great primary source.  I pursued the Project Gutenberg because several entries noted it and I discovered that it has over 33,000 free eBooks.

Thanks for the tip on searching the western history question.  I tried to search Nebraska by subject in basic search and only found 6 entries.  However using the advanced search and “publisher” I found 56 entries.  I did the same for South Dakota and found 14 under basic search and nothing using "publisher" in the advanced search.  I'm a little confused on how the "publisher" limiter works.

Net Library would be helpful with historical information and cliff notes, but I would not use it for health issues, travel, economics, career exploration, or other topics requiring current information.

Our 8^th grade Social Studies will soon begin their American Civil War Unit.  One of the elements students have difficulty with is locating appropriate photographs for their projects.  Using the American Civil War Reference Library and the list of illustrations the students would have access to a number of photographs.  These could be very beneficial, however they are not arranged in a very user-friendly search format.  The photographs were also slow to load, which would try the patience of some middle school students.

In “basic search” I typed in cell hydration and found one article from The Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health. Vol. 5.  It was a comprehensive article with a “read to me” option.  The “voice” was clear and articulate.

I typed in panther and 31 results were produced, many about the Black Panthers, the extremist group, only one article about the animal I was interested in.

I am grateful for the extensive access to business, law, medical and scientific resources.   

Proquest

Searching  Barnes and Nobles’ web site for the next book in the Ranger’s Apprentice series, I was drawn to the title of a book in the “new book release” scroll;  The Water Secret: The cellular breakthrough to look and feel 10 years younger.    Perhaps it was because it has been below zero for the past week, or it is midterm of the 3^rd quarter, or the approaching birthday…whatever the reason, I decided to check it out.  What an interesting concept, healthy cells equate to healthy mind and body.  I wanted to know more, so Proquest was the answer.  I searched by the book title and author and discovered a wide variety of articles, ranging from book reviews, to scientific studies, to the products the author markets.  The broad scope of articles gave me a good perspective….I’ll be checking it out from the public library!

I appreciate the insight and suggestions from my cohorts…thanks!  I agree with SMSEaglesLibrary and JeanWKLibrary finding our professional journals online will keep us connected and ease our budgets.

SIRS

SIRS – Discoverer

Before students access the Discoverer it is critical they understand the framework of the site.  We discuss the search result page, starting with the tab sources, icons and the sort by, explaining that the lexile level is like a customized reading level.

I found a good range in articles for lemurs.  The teacher resources within “Country Facts” would be helpful, especially the graphic organizers.  The wide variety of maps, not just geographical or political, would add another dimension to the understanding of the country.

I couldn’t keep away from the Skills Discoverer…Wow!  The art and music!  I also enjoyed the Science Fair Explorer and plan to pass the information on to our science department.

SIRS – Researcher

Why would you consult any other source!  I remember the SIRS in the gray binders.  That wasn’t so long ago was it?!  The site is nicely laid out and user friendly.  When students have experienced a quality resource they discover that “googling” a topic becomes more difficult.  The “Today’s News” certainly reinforces the timeliness of the database!  The narrow your search results box is extremely helpful and I noticed many of the web select sites end with edu., net. or org.

SIRS Discoverer and Researcher…the possibilities are endless!