Fee-Based Computer Searches - FAQ

1. When should I request a fee-based computer search?
2. What is a fee-based computer search?
3. How do I request a search?
4. How much does it cost?
5. May I be present when the search is run?
6. May I search these databases myself?

1. When should I request a fee-based computer search?

If you have not been able to find the articles or data you need using the databases available to you, a fee-based computer search in one of literally hundreds of databases available to our librarians may fill your need.

2. What is a fee-based computer search?

In a fee-based search, a librarian searches one or more databases available from a variety of database vendors online. The librarian does the search for you after conferring with you about the topic or data you are seeking. The vendors who provide these databases charge by the minute for searching, and also for displaying and printing results. The charge will be passed on to you. You may pay the cost by check or by charging the search to a UCSD Index Number.

3. How do I request a search?

UCSD faculty, staff and students may request a search at the Science & Engineering Reference Desk (x43258) or by using the Online Search Request Form.

Community and corporate users may contact PLUS, the libraries' fee-for-service department to request a search.

4. How much does it cost?

Cost varies widely -- it depends on the database searched, the complexity of the request, and the number of items resulting. When you request your search, we will try to give you an estimate and also ask you to establish an upper limit you are willing to spend. Costs start at approximately $35 but can run as high as several hundred dollars. For chemical searches, UCSD receives a significant academic discount for searching Chemical Abstracts Online for faculty, staff and students (community and corporate users pay the full rate).

5. May I be present when the search is run?

Yes, you may make an appointment to be present when the search is run. Note that Chemical Abstracts searches are normally run after 5pm for faculty, staff and students in order to take advantage of our academic discount.

6. May I search these databases myself?

Anyone may open an account to search the databases offered by the same vendors the librarians use. Generally there is a small fee to open an account, and then you are billed by the vendor for the searches you do. Note that these databases can be expensive and the interfaces less than user friendly, so be prepared to take two to three days training in search techniques.

STN International (800-753-4227) is the major provider of Chemical Abstracts and other science databases.

Dialog (800-334-2564 ), a vendor of both scientific and non-science databases, gives classes in San Diego regularly.