Formats of
Information

Library Assignment Bank

Information is stored in a variety of packages.  The way information is packaged is called a format.  The four major formats that you are likely to encounter in the library are: Print, Electronic, Audiovisual, and Microform.

Print

 The print format uses paper. Books (encyclopedias, dictionaries, novels...), magazines, bound periodicals, newspapers, and pamphlets are examples of information in the print format.

Electronic

 Electronic formats use a computer to deliver information.  Information received from the Internet or from CD-ROMs would be stored in electronic formats.

Audiovisual

 Audiovisual (A/V) formats require that you watch or listen.  Examples include slides, films, audiocassettes, music cds and videocassette tapes.

Microform

 Microforms reduce an image and put it on plastic film to be read by a machine.  Microfilm, microfiche, and microcartridge are examples of microforms.

Many resources come in multiple formats; for example, the Encyclopedia Britannica is available in the library in print format and in electronic format through PCC's Remote Access Database subscriptions. Take a look at the items below.  In what format (or formats) would you find them in the PCC Library? Check the online catalog, electronic databases, or... ask the Librarian.

The New York Times

 

The Oxford English Dictionary

 

Hamlet, Prince of Denmark by William Shakespeare

 

Occupational Outlook Handbook

 

Now... suppose you have a topic to research. 

 AIDS/HIV, Jazz Music, World War II, or you pick your own topic if you like:___________________________

  1. Give an example of two reference resources in print format that you might use to start your research. (You can use the Online Catalog to locate print resources)
     

  2. Give an example of two databases (electronic format) that you could use to find information on your topic.  (Click on the "Databases" link on the Library Web Site and enter your PCC ID to logon)
     

  3. Give an example of two resources in audiovisual format that you could use.
    (You can use the Online Catalog to locate audiovisual resources too)
     

  4. Give an example of two periodical resources that you would not find in a PCC database that you would find in microform format that you could use.
    (Check the "holdings lists" for periodical titles that are stored on microfilm)

 

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