Literature Search Services
VCU Libraries provides a fee-based literature search service on medical/health
sciences related topics to VCU students, faculty,
and staff. Through this service, a Tompkins-McCaw librarian can work with you to select
appropriate databases and design a search strategy to retrieve the information
you need.
What is a Literature Search?
A literature search can retrieve a list of citations to articles, reports,
papers, books, theses, proceedings, and other documents on a specific subject.
Searches
can include or be limited to specific subjects, authors, languages, years,
or types of publications.
Each record retrieved contains information necessary to locate the complete
article, book, or report. Many of these records contain abstracts which
summarize the contents, thus expediting your research.
Why do a Literature Search?
A literature search is useful:
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to locate a list of relevant citations with the help of experienced library
staff.
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to locate articles or other materials relating to a precisely defined topic
or a combination of topics.
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to create a comprehensive list of available citations on a particular topic.
Is a Literature Search Always Appropriate?
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A literature search is appropriate if:
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the topic is complex and involves two or more terms
- the topic is unique
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a thorough review of literature is needed for a research paper, thesis, grant proposal or publication
-
A literature search is inappropriate if:
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only a few citations are needed and can be found easily in either printed
indexes, abstracts, or bibliographies
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a single-term search would produce an unmanageable number of citations.
Consult a reference librarian if you are uncertain as to the best research
approach.
How Much Do Searches Cost?
- VCU students, faculty, and staff are charged a $50.00 per hour
- Searches are paid for after they have been completed.
-
Searches must be paid for whether or not citations are found.
How Can a Search Be Requested?
- Users need to complete a Literature Search Request Form and discuss topics, research needs,
and possible search strategies with a reference librarian.
How Long Does a Computer Search Take?
Consult your reference librarian for a mutually-agreeable completion time.
- Searches are usually available within five working days.
- Direct patient care searches are ready in 24 to 48 hours.