Internet Searching

VISIBLE WEB VS. INVISIBLE WEB
The Internet can be divided into two areas: the Visible Web and the Invisible Web.  The Visible Web includes Internet sources that are found when using free search engines and directories (ex. Google, Librarians index to the internet).  The Invisible Web includes Internet sources that contain proprietary information and access is retricted based on a password and/or payment system (ex. the Library's article databases). Free search engines and directories, such as Google, cannot view information within the Invisible Web. 

SEARCHING THE VISIBLE WEB
Subject Directories - a searchable collection of links to Internet sources that have been selected based on specific criteria by experts and are organized into categories. The criteria for selection is unique for each directory depending upon its intended use.  Directories tend to be smaller than search engines and so can be useful when you want to find a limited number of sources.  Keep the search terms broad.

Librarians Index to the Internet - Internet sources selected by librarians for public library users.

Infomine - Internet sources selected by UC librarians for academic content.

Academic Info - Internet sources selected by a librarian for academic content.

A List of Additional Subject Directories

Search Engines - a searchable database of Internet sources that have been collected by a computer program.  Much larger than a directory. Internet sources are NOT selected based on criteria.  Common search tips for search engines: Use "" around phrases, - to remove words, + to include common words, assumes AND between keywords, use Advanced Search screen for options to limit search.

Google - considered the largest search engine. Ranks based on popularity. Advanced search screen available. 

Ask.com - uses popularity of subject specific links to rank list.

Yahoo - search engine and directory avail.  

Dogpile - a meta-search engine that searches multiple search engines at one time. 

EVALUATING INTERNET SOURCES

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluating Webpage Worksheet (Word) -

MORE INFO. ON INTERNET SEARCHING

• Internet Tutorials - from
• How each search engine works-- from the University of California at Berkeley
• Search Engine Showdown -- Compares, contrast & explains how to use various Internet search engines.
  
• Search Engine Watch -- News, tips and more about search engines.
  
• Conducting Research on the Internet -- A comprehensive internet tutor, including a basic guide, search tips and stragegies.

COA Library Disclaimer

Use the Internet with caution! The Internet provides access to a worldwide array of information sources and is an invaluable added dimension in the library's information resources and services. However, the Internet is an unregulated medium. Internet sources may provide information that is inaccurate, incomplete, out-of-date, personally offensive, or inappropriate.

The College of Alameda web site has links to many sites including: state and federal agencies, professional organizations, commercial and private sites and many others. By linking to these sites, College of Alameda Library is not endorsing or recommending products, processes or services found on the Internet. College of Alameda Library does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on the linked pages.