Books/Journals vs. Web Resources
Web sites can provide an
additional
dimension to a literature search, but should not be relied upon exclusively. Compare these important differences.
Books/Journals
Web Resources
Content
All types:
scholarly; popular; professional, trade, etc.
Many types of information: commercial, educational, entertainment, government, news, personal.
Authority/Reliability
Scholarly materials are peer reviewed; commercial publishers often have an established reputation; journalistic codes.
May be difficult to confirm authorship, expertise, or sponsorship. Information has not necessarily been verified.
Availability
Continuing availability from libraries.
Unstable. Web site/link may be dropped or not updated. Access dependent on reliable site maintenance.
Searching capability
Good subject access and keyword access.
Uneven reliability of search engines.
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Last updated 01/15/07
