Practical ideas for improving search results

CHICAGO — Bringing together expert international practitioners and researchers, “Systematic Searching: Practical Ideas for Improving Results,” published by Facet Publishing and available through the ALA Store, highlights the latest thinking on systematic searching. Beginning by looking at the role of the information specialist as an expert searcher, the book then examines the current challenges and the potential solutions to more effective searching in detail. Editors Paul Levay and Jenny Craven, alongside their contributors, blend theory and practice to take into account several different approaches to information retrieval and information-seeking behavior, with a special focus on searching for complex topics in a health-related environment. The book does not presume an in-depth prior knowledge or experience of systematic searching and includes case studies, practical examples, and ideas for further research and reading to ensure the book is accessible to all. The book is divided into three parts:

• Part 1: "Methods" covers theoretical models of information seeking and also systematic searching practice, including search filters and controlled vocabularies;
• Part 2: "Technology" covers new technologies for retrieving evidence such as social media and the Semantic Web, as well as using text mining to support the development of search strategies; and
• Part 3: "People" considers the future of the information specialist as an expert searcher and explores how information professionals could develop their skills and find new roles.

Customers outside of North America (USA and Canada) should contact Facet Publishing for purchasing information.

Levay is an Information Specialist at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). He has previously held posts at the National Police Library and the Greater London Authority. He is a chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). Craven is an Information Specialist at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). She has served on the standing committee of the IFLA libraries serving persons with disabilities group, and has run a series of workshops in developing countries for the FORCE Foundation charity on providing accessible library services. As editor, her books include “Web Accessibility: Practical Advice for the Library and Information Professional” and “Access, Delivery, Performance: The Future of Libraries Without Walls.”

Facet Publishing, the commercial publishing and bookselling arm of CILIP: the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, is the leading publisher of books for library and information professionals worldwide. ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. Contact us at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5052 or editionsmarketing@ala.org.