[LM_NET] TARGET: Evaluating a Database

[Shonda Brisco <sbrisco@GMAIL.COM>]

I'm compiling a list of things that most librarians look for when they
evaluate subscription databases.  While price is always a
consideration, I'm not going to make it a major point for choosing a
database.  Right now, I'm creating a list of things that I would
automatically assume would be included in a database such as:  email
capabilities, printing, citation information, searching techniques or
examples provided, access from home and school, tutorials for using
the database, subject content of the database, how many full text vs.
abstracts it contains, etc.

With all of these listed as a "given" that I would probably find from
most databases, I am now looking for the things that make a BIG impact
with you as a librarian.  What have you seen lately from some of the
databases that make you "excited" about them?  What features do you
find in SOME databases but not in others?  What features would you
WANT in your databases (if you had the opportunity to add those
features)?

If you have the time, drop me a line and describe what things are most
important to you and that haven't already been considered.  I'll
compile a hit for those who are interested!

Thanks!

~Shonda

-- 
Shonda Brisco, MLIS
Library Media / Technology Specialist
Digital Bookends wiki / blog:
http://digitalbookends.pbwiki.com
http://shonda.edublogs.org/
sbrisco@gmail.com

Resources for Texas School Librarians:
http://txschoollibrarians.ning.com/
http://txschoollibrarians.wikispaces.com/

"Digital Resources" columnist
School Library Journal

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