Explorations in Indexing and Abstracting: Pointing, Virtue, and Power

O'Connor, Brian C.

ISBN 10: 1563081849 / ISBN 13: 9781563081842

Published by Libraries Unltd Inc, 1996

About this Item

182 pages. 9.75x6.50x0.75 inches. In Stock.

Seller Inventory # x-1563081849

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Explorations in Indexing and Abstracting: Pointing, Virtue, and Power
• Publisher: Libraries Unltd Inc
• Publication Date: 1996
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1563081849
• ISBN 13: 9781563081842
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Brand New
• Weight: 0.5 kilograms

About this title

Synopsis

Indexing and abstracting often fail because too much emphasis is given to the mechanics of description and too little is given to what ought to be described. This text focuses on how people seek information. Drawing on a delightfully broad base of intellectual resources―from information theory and classic literature to Beethoven and MTV―the author considers the basic question of how we can index and abstract our information so that the user can actually find it. He also addresses the challenges and opportunities resulting from the information and technology explosion. O'Connor discusses the shortcomings of traditional indexing and abstracting systems and then presents essays, exercises, and case studies that foster consideration of the elements of a successful search in a variety of settings. Useful as a companion volume for reference, cataloging, and indexing and abstracting classes, this book is also of interest to professional librarians, information brokers, and online searchers.

About the Author

Brian C. O'Connor is associate professor, School of Library and Information Sciences, University of North Texas. He is also associate director of the interdisciplinary PhD program in information science.