The clue to this book is the opening words of the title. There are many guides to Internet resources, and many guides to information sources contain Internet addresses. These are ideal for the subject specialist who needs to quickly build up a set of bookmarks. Information specialists have a different problem: they are expected to find information over a wide range of subjects. The Internet contains much valuable information and is beginning to become a major resource for information. This book is a good introduction to using this resource. No previous experience is expected beyond using a Windows or Apple environment (the book is based on Windows applications, but guidance is given for other systems and earlier versions of Windows). Each chapter sets out what is to be taught in it. The concepts are introduced and there are hands‐on exercises to try. Each chapter ends with a summary of the new concepts learnt.
The book starts with the basics of what the Web is, browsing and bookmarks. It then goes through directories, virtual libraries, search engines, specialised databases, and library catalogues. Then on to file transfer and archives, e‐mails, and discussion groups. One chapter deals with finding e‐mail addresses, phone numbers and maps. Another deals with evaluating information found on the Web, by researching on the Web authors and their organisations. Useful guidance is given on citing Web and Internet sources. There are a couple of sample research projects. The book ends with a chapter on ethical issues and security. Although I have not had time to try all the exercises I am aware of many ways of improving my use of the Internet. One of my throw‐away rules of information science is that if a question is worth asking it probably has been answered because the information is critical in someone else’s work. The chances are high that the information is on the Internet, but finding it there can be harder than looking it up in the appropriate reference book. Using the advice and tips in this guide will greatly improve one’s efficiency in using the Internet.
Information specialists are not the only ones who will benefit from this book; anyone who searches the Internet for information as part of their research will find it useful. I am building up a borrowers’ list for my copy! There are sufficient cross‐references and repetition to make it possible to skip chapters because you already know about some item or do not wish to use others, and to use it as a reference book. The examples are mainly from the USA, which is expected given that the authors work at Mary Washington College. UK users will have to find their own way around the British Library Site (portico. bl.uk) and look for sources of UK business information. There is an electronic version at www.mwc.edu/ernie/search‐web.html .
