Explorations in Indexing and Abstracting

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 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. In the first part of the book, O’Connor discusses the shortcomings of traditional indexing and abstracting systems. In the second part, he 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, cataloguing, and indexing and abstracting classes, this book should also be of interest to professional librarians, information brokers and online searchers.

Author Biography

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.