The New York Public Library Kid's Guide to Research - Hardcover

Every kid--like every proper sleuth--needs to know how to track down information, whether it's on the Internet, poking around the local library, talking to Uncle Jake, or surveying friends. When you research a topic, you travel from clue to clue, from fact to fact, collecting information until the case is cracked and you're well versed in your subject. The librarians at the New York Public Library know from hands-on experience what kinds of help kids are looking for, whether they are researching a school assignment or their family tree. Together with award-winning children's book author Deborah Heiligman, they have compiled this useful resource, an accessible introduction to everything any budding scholar needs to know to do research: choosing a topic; going to the library; reference books (and how to take notes); books on specific topics (tips on library catalogs, Boolean operators, call numbers, and the categories of the Dewey Decimal System); magazines and newspapers; visual research (including photos, videos, and maps); the Internet (a basic introduction to general terms with detailed safety and etiquette sections); judging the reliability of sources; sending away for information; research trips; interviewing people; surveys; and hands-on research. With a little natural curiosity and some solid research techniques and skills, your child will soon be an expert detective! (Ages 9 to 12) --Karin Snelson

Grade 5-8?Short and complete, this book contains a wealth of material for young researchers. Taking notes, evaluating resources, using nonprint materials, conducting surveys and interviews, locating 800 numbers, sending away for information, searching on the Internet, and more are covered. Some practical advice is also imparted; readers are reminded to take their library cards and change for the copy machines to the library and are given tips about Internet etiquette and safety. The tone is conversational and cordial. While some students might not understand why the illustrations feature a lion, its actions enliven the pages, as do the short paragraphs with lots of headlines and bold print. A book that is appealing and informative, with content appeal across the grades.?Edith Ching, St. Albans School, Mt. St. Alban, Washington, DC
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.