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Gale Directory of Databases 2009: A Comprehensive Resource for Researchers and

Librarians

gale directory of databases 2009 gale directory of stands as a pivotal guide for

anyone navigating the vast landscape of information resources available at the time. This

directory, published by Gale, has long been recognized as an essential tool for librarians,

researchers, and information professionals seeking to identify, evaluate, and select

databases tailored to their specific research needs. The 2009 edition offers a snapshot of

the digital information environment during that period, capturing a wealth of data about

numerous databases across various subjects and disciplines.

Understanding the Gale Directory of Databases 2009

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 is much more than a simple listing of databases;

it’s a detailed compendium that provides extensive descriptions, including coverage

areas, update frequencies, formats, and access methods for each database. This makes it

an indispensable reference for institutions aiming to build or expand their digital

collections or for scholars looking to pinpoint authoritative and relevant sources.

What Makes the 2009 Edition Stand Out?

While the Gale Directory of Databases has been published in multiple editions over the

years, the 2009 compilation is notable for encompassing a broad spectrum of databases

during a time when digital information was rapidly evolving. It reflects the transitional

period when libraries were shifting from print to digital mediums, offering insights into

both subscription-based and open-access resources.

The directory includes:

Detailed profiles of over 6,000 databases available worldwide

Coverage of databases in diverse fields such as business, health, social sciences,

arts, and technology

Information about database vendors, pricing models, and access platforms

This level of detail is particularly helpful for librarians who need to justify acquisitions or

subscriptions to stakeholders, providing clear evidence of a database’s relevance and

value.

Key Features of the Gale Directory of Databases 2009

Navigating an extensive directory can be challenging, but the Gale Directory of Databases

2009 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Here are some of its standout features:

Comprehensive Database Descriptions

Each database entry includes:

Title and alternative names

Producer or publisher information

Subject coverage and scope

Geographic focus, if applicable

Update frequency and data currency

Access methods (web, CD-ROM, etc.)

Pricing and subscription details

These details allow users to quickly assess whether a database fits their research

requirements without having to visit each vendor’s website individually.

Subject Categorization and Indexing

The directory organizes databases by subject areas, making it easier to locate resources

relevant to specific fields. Whether you are researching medical databases, business

intelligence platforms, or historical archives, the subject-based sorting streamlines your

search.

Vendor and Platform Information

Understanding the vendor behind a database can influence purchasing decisions. The

Gale Directory of Databases 2009 provides comprehensive vendor profiles and explains

the platforms supporting each database, such as proprietary interfaces or third-party

aggregators.

Who Benefits from Using the Gale Directory of Databases 2009?

The directory is a valuable asset for a variety of users, including:

Librarians and Information Professionals

For librarians managing collections and subscriptions, having an authoritative source like

the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 helps in making informed decisions. It aids in

collection development, budgeting, and negotiating with vendors by providing a clear

overview of available options.

Academic Researchers and Students

Researchers often face the challenge of sifting through countless databases to find the

most relevant and credible sources. This directory acts as a roadmap, guiding them to

databases that specialize in their area of study, whether it’s economics, environmental

science, or cultural studies.

Corporate and Business Analysts

In the corporate world, access to current and comprehensive databases is crucial for

market research, competitor analysis, and strategic planning. The Gale directory helps

professionals identify business intelligence databases that cater to their specific needs.

How to Use the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 Effectively

To make the most of this resource, consider the following tips:

Leverage Keyword and Subject Searches

Use the directory’s subject categories and keyword indexes to quickly narrow down

relevant databases. This focused approach saves time and increases the likelihood of

discovering high-quality resources.

Compare Database Features

When evaluating databases, pay attention to factors such as update frequency,

geographic coverage, and interface usability. The directory’s detailed descriptions allow

side-by-side comparisons, facilitating better choices.

Check Vendor Support and Access Options

Understanding how a database is accessed and the support provided by the vendor can

impact user experience. The Gale directory includes this information, helping institutions

anticipate training and technical needs.

Evolution of Database Directories in the Digital Age

Reflecting on the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 also offers insight into how database

directories have evolved. Since 2009, the proliferation of digital content and the rise of

open-access platforms have transformed how researchers find and use information.

Modern directories often integrate with discovery tools and offer real-time updates, but

the 2009 Gale directory remains a valuable historical record of the state of digital

databases at that time.

From Print to Digital: The Transition

Back in 2009, many libraries still relied on printed directories or static PDFs of database

listings. The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 was available in both print and electronic

formats, bridging the gap between traditional and emerging digital reference tools.

Current Trends and Future Directions

Today, database directories are often integrated into library websites and discovery

layers, allowing seamless access to multiple resources. However, the core principles of

the Gale Directory of Databases—comprehensive coverage, detailed descriptions, and

user-oriented organization—remain foundational to information resource management.

Additional Resources Related to the Gale Directory of Databases

For those interested in exploring beyond the directory itself, several complementary

resources can enhance understanding and research capabilities:

Library and Information Science Journals: Articles reviewing database usage

1.

trends and directory development.

Vendor Websites: Direct access to database providers for the latest updates and

2.

demos.

Library Consortiums: Collaborative purchasing agreements that leverage insights

3.

from directories like Gale’s.

Information Literacy Guides: Tutorials on how to select and evaluate databases

4.

effectively.

These resources support users in making informed decisions about database subscriptions

and usage.

Exploring the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 gale directory of databases offers a

fascinating glimpse into the world of digital information management at a pivotal time.

Whether you are a librarian, researcher, or information enthusiast, understanding this

directory’s role can deepen your appreciation of how we organize and access knowledge

in the digital age.

Question

Answer

What is the Gale Directory

of Databases 2009?

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 is a comprehensive

reference guide published by Gale that provides detailed

information about thousands of electronic databases

available for research and academic purposes as of the

year 2009.

Who can benefit from using

the Gale Directory of

Databases 2009?

Librarians, researchers, students, and academic

professionals can benefit from using the Gale Directory of

Databases 2009 to identify relevant databases for their

research needs and to locate resources across various

disciplines.

What type of information is

included in the Gale

Directory of Databases

2009?

The directory includes detailed descriptions of databases,

including content coverage, access methods, vendors,

pricing, and target audiences, helping users select

appropriate electronic resources.

How is the Gale Directory of

Databases 2009 organized?

The directory is typically organized alphabetically by

database name and also includes indexes by subject,

vendor, and access method to facilitate easy navigation

and selection.

Is the Gale Directory of

Databases 2009 available in

digital format?

While primarily published as a print reference book, some

editions of the Gale Directory of Databases may be

available in digital or online formats through library

subscriptions or Gale's own platforms.

How does the 2009 edition

of the Gale Directory of

Databases compare to more

recent editions?

The 2009 edition reflects the database landscape as of

that year and may not include newer databases or

updated access information found in more recent

editions, which are recommended for current research

needs.

Can the Gale Directory of

Databases 2009 help in

evaluating database

subscriptions for libraries?

Yes, the directory provides essential information on

database content, pricing, and vendors, assisting

librarians in making informed decisions about which

databases to subscribe to based on their institution's

requirements.

Where can I access or

purchase the Gale Directory

of Databases 2009?

The directory can be accessed through academic or

public libraries that hold a copy, or it can be purchased

via online book retailers, Gale's official website, or

specialized academic book vendors.

Gale Directory of Databases 2009: An Analytical Review of a Key Research Resource

gale directory of databases 2009 gale directory of stands as a significant reference

tool for librarians, researchers, and information professionals seeking comprehensive data

on electronic databases. As part of Gale’s extensive suite of reference products, the 2009

edition of the Gale Directory of Databases offers a detailed overview of thousands of

databases available worldwide, providing essential metadata, access information, and

usage details that facilitate effective resource discovery and management.

Understanding the Gale Directory of Databases 2009

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 functions as an authoritative guide to electronic

databases, encompassing a wide array of subject areas including business, health, social

sciences, humanities, and technology. This directory is especially valuable in an era when

digital information resources are rapidly expanding, making comprehensive and reliable

database listings a necessity for institutions and individual researchers alike.

Unlike generic search engines or fragmented listings, the Gale directory consolidates

authoritative information about databases from multiple vendors and providers, thus

enabling users to identify appropriate resources with confidence. The 2009 edition reflects

a snapshot of the digital information landscape at that time, capturing the evolution and

growing importance of online databases in academic and professional research.

Content Scope and Coverage

The 2009 Gale Directory of Databases cataloged over 5,000 electronic databases,

providing descriptive entries that include:

Database titles and alternative names

1.

Subject coverage and disciplines

2.

Frequency of updates and data currency

3.

Access methods and vendor information

4.

Pricing models and subscription details

5.

Technical requirements and platform compatibility

6.

This extensive coverage made it an indispensable tool for collection development

librarians tasked with selecting or evaluating electronic resources for their institutions. By

consolidating these critical data points, the directory facilitated more informed decision-

making processes and optimized acquisition strategies.

Comparative Features with Contemporary Resources

When positioning the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 against other similar publications

or modern digital tools, several distinguishing characteristics emerge.

Firstly, its focus on verified and standardized data sets it apart from user-generated or

crowdsourced listings, which may lack consistency or accuracy. Secondly, the directory’s

structured format allowed for easy cross-referencing and comparison of databases based

on subject, vendor, or cost, which was particularly useful before the widespread adoption

of dynamic online discovery tools.

However, relative to today’s real-time database aggregators and integrated library

systems, the 2009 directory’s static print or standalone digital format presented

limitations in terms of update frequency and interactivity. Still, for its time, it was a

comprehensive and reliable resource trusted by information professionals.

Key Advantages of the Gale Directory of Databases 2009

The utility of the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 can be appreciated through an

analysis of its core strengths:

Reliability and Authoritativeness

The directory was compiled and maintained by Gale, a respected name in academic

publishing and reference resources. This affiliation ensured rigorous editorial standards,

thorough verification of data, and frequent updates aligned with the publication schedule,

which enhanced its credibility.

Comprehensive Subject Coverage

Unlike niche directories focusing on a single discipline, the Gale directory spanned a broad

spectrum of subjects, making it a one-stop reference for multidisciplinary research needs.

This inclusivity was particularly beneficial for academic libraries that support diverse

curricula.

Structured and Accessible Format

Entries were organized systematically, often alphabetically by database title, with clear

indexing by subject and vendor. This organization improved usability, allowing users to

navigate quickly to relevant databases or compare options within a thematic area.

Facilitation of Informed Acquisition Decisions

By providing detailed vendor contact information, pricing options, and access protocols,

the directory empowered librarians and administrators to negotiate subscriptions and

manage budgets efficiently.

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

While the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 delivered substantial benefits, it also had

inherent constraints reflective of its time and format.

Update Frequency and Data Currency

Published annually, the directory could not capture mid-year changes or new database

launches promptly, potentially leaving users working with slightly outdated information in

fast-evolving fields.

Digital Usability Constraints

The 2009 edition was often distributed as a print volume or static PDF, limiting

interactivity and advanced search capabilities now common in dynamic online platforms.

This sometimes made locating niche or emerging databases more cumbersome.

Cost and Accessibility

Access to the directory itself required institutional subscription or purchase, which might

have been a barrier for smaller organizations or independent researchers without library

affiliations.

Integration with Modern Information Environments

Although the Gale Directory of Databases 2009 was a product of its era, its legacy persists

in how information professionals approach database management and discovery. The

foundational principles of authoritative data compilation, comprehensive coverage, and

user-centered organization continue to influence the design of current digital resource

directories.

Modern platforms have built upon Gale’s model by incorporating real-time updates, user

reviews, and integration with library management systems. Still, the 2009 directory

remains a useful historical reference and a case study in systematic electronic resource

documentation.

Impact on Library Science and Information Management

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 contributed to standardizing metadata practices

and fostering collaboration among vendors, publishers, and libraries. Its role in promoting

transparency about database content and access models helped libraries negotiate better

terms and tailor collections to user needs.

Transition to Digital and Online Platforms

The shift from print to digital reference tools has transformed how directories like Gale’s

are produced and consumed. Today’s users expect instantaneous search results, linked

content, and personalized recommendations—features that the 2009 edition could not

provide but helped pave the way for.

Practical Uses and Audience

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 primarily served:

Librarians involved in collection development and resource management

1.

Academic researchers seeking comprehensive listings of available databases

2.

Information professionals conducting competitive analysis of information providers

3.

Publishers and vendors benchmarking their offerings against market competitors

4.

Its utility in these domains underscores its importance as a reference tool that bridges the

gap between database producers and consumers, ensuring transparent and accessible

information about digital resources.

The Gale Directory of Databases 2009 stands as a milestone in the evolution of electronic

resource directories, reflecting the state of digital information management over a decade

ago while continuing to inform present-day practices in database discovery and library

acquisition. Its detailed, authoritative listings remain a valuable asset for understanding

the complex landscape of electronic databases during a pivotal period of growth and

transformation.

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