Internet searching

From Regional Knowledge Resource Kit

Search engines are often the first information resource consulted by people looking for information. Failures in locating information are a common experience that everyone can commiserate with.

Why can't we find the information we need?

• Sometimes the information isn't on the public Web at all so a search engine simply cannot find it.

• The resources of the Internet do not contain everything and other information resources such as books, libraries or commercial databases may hold the answer.

• Sometimes the information is out there but cannot be accessed by search engines due to web site owners not wanting their information found or posing barriers to search engine access (referred to as the "Invisible Web')

Many public, state and university libraries will know of or offer training in searching the Internet. Some libraries have posted their web search tips and tutorials online:

• National Library of Australia internet search tips
• University of Technology Sydney Internet search tutorial

The following resources might be of interest for further reading:

• The Invisible Web: uncovering information sources search engines can't see by Chris Sherman and Gary Price. Medford, New Jersey; Information Today Inc; 2007.

• Teaching web search skills: techniques and strategies of top trainers by Greg R. Notess. Medford, New Jersey; Information Today Inc; 2007.