Introduction to Modern Information Retrieval

The recently revised third edition of this highly regarded text blends traditional theories, techniques and tools with coverage of cutting-edge advancements and sophisticated new technologies in information retrieval (IR). Unique in its scope, author G.G. Chowdhury s exhaustive guide spans the whole spectrum of this rapidly expanding field, including:

'Database technology, Bibliographic formats, Cataloging and metadata, Subject analysis and representation, Automatic indexing and file organization, Vocabulary control, Abstracts and indexing, Searching and retrieval models, User interfaces, Evaluation of IR user needs, Online database search services, Multimedia IR, Mark-up languages, Web and intelligent IR, Natural language processing systems, IR in digital libraries'

There is also a new, detailed chapter on citation indexing, along with insight on emerging trends in the field. Illustrated with many examples and extensively referenced, this is an indispensable tool for professionals and LIS students eager to broaden their skill sets and keep up with the latest developments in information storage and retrieval.

In this text, Chowdhury (professor of journalism, Information and Media Studies Group, University of Technology, Sydney) covers topics such as database technology, abstracting, indexing, users and user interfaces, multimedia and Internet searching, and trends. Besides revisions, a new chapter covers citation analysis. Chapters start with an introduction, quickly move to reviewing key elements, and conclude with a summation and list of references. The book is intended for an international readership comprising “students of library and information science programmes, both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.” The chapters “Automatic Indexing and Organization,” “Searching and Retrieval,” and “Natural Language Processing and Information Retrieval” are dense and will challenge most undergrads. Screenshots tend to be small and unreadable. For LIS programs. --Stephen Fadel