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

by Brian C. O'Connor

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781563081842
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	06/15/1996
Series:	Library Science Text Series
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	182
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.50(d)

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.

Editorial Reviews

This book is thoughtfully written and quite well edited.” —Journal of Academic Librarianship

“The book makes interesting and stimulating reading and is recommended for practicing indexers and abstractors as a means of removing their noses from the grindstone and lifting their heads for a few deep breaths of more rarified air.” —The Indexer

“Would be useful in library science classes as well as for professional online searchers or brokers.” —Public Library Quarterly

From the Publisher

Draws on intellectual resources from information theory to MTV to discuss challenges to the indexing and abstracting field posed by the information and technology explosion, and presents alternatives for abstracting and indexing information so that users can actually find it. Looks at the shortcomings of traditional systems, and uses exercises and case studies to demonstrate the elements of a patron- specific system. For professionals and students in library science. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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