How To Find Out Anything

Do you know where you would find the latest report examining gang trends or threats in the United States? Could you find crime statistics for your region? Can you access Form 990 and research the validity of your favorite charitable organization? Need to find a database to look up toll-free numbers? MacLeod (law librarian; The Internet Guide for the Legal Researcher) shares wisdom and skills that will aid research, save time, and make navigation more proficient. He argues that while Google is a "great place to start" research, it is "not the end" of successful information gathering. He emphasizes that although Google is a powerful tool used by millions, researchers must be aware of its limitations, including blind spots, and be mindful of the need to evaluate findings critically. The book takes a commonsense approach, with chapters ranging from "How To Think Like a Researcher," "The Ins and Outs of Google," and "Researching the Public Record." It also offers advice for limiting scope, determining accuracy, and recognizing reliable sources. Chapters close with lists of "Sites and Sources Mentioned in This Chapter," which offer links that support the text as well as provide readers with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of specific topics. A helpful index completes the presentation.