11.+Online+Search+Tools

INSPIRE is a compilation of databases that’s available online through the Indiana State Library. This resource is extensive and free to Indiana residents. I can imagine using this to complement my library’s databases. I have already used it to help with my own research for other SLIS classes. Like any database, it’s limited by the content that’s been cataloged by the tool.
 * //INSPIRE: Indiana's Virtual Library//.** Indiana State Library. Web. .

I found this database through a Google search. KidsClick! includes cataloged webpages that are safe for students and were compiled by librarians. The results contain a lot of kid-friendly media, including pictures and video. I can imagine using this as a way to help kids do online searches for web content rather than articles. I’m not sure about this, but I imagine a weakness of this service is that it would be hard to maintain currency/viability of sites because web content changes so quickly.
 * //KidsClick! Web Search//****.** [|www.kidsclick.org], 2011. Web. .

I’m including the MCPL catalog because, while I may not end up working in Monroe County, it is representative of the fact that our public libraries are a valuable resource for school librarians and students. The public library may have more resources available than a school library, helping students to widen their search. I plan to not only utilize the public library catalog, but also to form a collaborative relationship with my local public librarian. A weakness of public libraries is that, because they are different facilities, organizing opportunities for students to visit the public library will be a challenge.
 * "Monroe County Public Library: Search."** //mcpl.info//. Polaris Library Systems, 2010. Web. .