Gateways and Subject-Specific Databases

The two kinds of gateways are library gateways and portals. Library gateways are collections of databases that have been reviewed by specialists. Because of this one can be sure the sites are reputable and beneficial for researching. These gateways point users towards recommended, academically-oriented web sites. Portals offer subject directories and links to services like email or maps (discussed also in previous post).

Subject-specific databases are also called vortals. These are devoted to one, specific subject and are created by experts with a deep interest in that field. Something new to me is that there exists this thing called the "Invisible Web." What does this mean, you ask? Well, unbeknownst to many, there is sixty to eighty percent of the web that most search engines simply cannot detect. What exists in this "Invisible Web?" Pass-protected sites, documents behind firewalls, archived material, among other things. Why can't you get to it? Mainly because "these resources may or may not be visible to search engine spiders." To access invisible sites, you must type in the exact address or click on a link to take you there. This is why we need library gateways and subject-specific databases. They allow you to access information from the "Invisible Web" by pointing your browser directly at these sites.

It is best to use these tools when you are looking for high quality, reputable sites about specific topics or research items. The content of these sites has been reviewed by a specialist in the field and you can rest assured you will be getting creditable information.