This presentation explains how to build an effective search strategy for library databases. It outlines developing a search plan by researching topics, identifying main concepts, using synonyms and phrases, and applying Boolean operators like AND, OR and NOT. The objectives are to explain what a library database is, develop a search strategy, and explain nuances of searching. Searching techniques like using quotation marks, broadening terms, and excluding results are also covered.

1. Library Databases
Building a Search Strategy
Kumar
Head Librarian
Academic Bridge Program
Qatar Foundation

2. Objectives of this presentation
Explain what a library database is.
Develop a search strategy.
Explain the nuances of searching.

3. Library Databases
What?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

4. 1. Plan

5. 2. Research Topic or
Question
How schools are planning to cope with
technology in Qatar?

6. 3. Identify Main Concepts
Schools
Planning
Technology
Qatar

7. Should the state or federal government put laws into place to prevent cyber
bullying?

8. 4. Use Synonyms or Phrases
Broaden or limit your search
Consider using quotes around
phrases
◦ “Strategic Planning”
◦ “Educational Technology”

9. 5. Use Connecting Words
Boolean Operators
AND
OR
NOT

10. AND
How schools are planning to cope with technology in Qatar?
Schools and Technology HAVE to be included in the
search

11. OR
How schools are planning to cope with technology in Qatar?
Information Technology OR Education Technology
Expanding or broadening the search

12. NOT
How schools are planning to cope with technology in Qatar?
NOT
IT
Education
Technology
Excluding or limiting the search results

13. Recap
Plan
Research topic or question
Identify main concepts
Use synonyms or phrases
Use connecting words (Boolean
operators)

14. Questions?
Feel free to contact
Kumar
Head Librarian
Academic Bridge Program
Office B001A [Library]
skumaresan@qf.org.qa
 445 42167