In search of discovery: the case for library research instruction.

Searcher, May, 2005 by Solomon, March

From business plans to dissertations, we are constantly engaged in "the search" for the lowest price, the best source, the most convincing argument, even the most qualified candidate. But as much as we want the Web to enlighten us, how often do we learn what we need to know? Even when we have a productive outcome, how often do we process, document, and share the wisdom with others in the daily practice of universal problem-solving we call "search"?

Many students roll their restless eyes when I ask if they know how to search. Still others seem to lunge at any random database their passwords will access in a desperate cry for assistance. Whether our patrons, clients, and colleagues belong to the categories of know-it-alls, desperados, or somewhere in-between,...