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Get the Most out of Searching

A person at an open laptop with Google search engine open

Related Guides

There is a wealth of information online, but finding the right information when we need it can be a challenge. Learning and refining a few search techniques and principles that work for you can go a long way to making your online information-seeking easier, faster, and more accurate.

This page includes some recommended books from our catalogue, online tutorials and tools, and links to some of our digital resources, all of which are intended to help learners improve their online searching skills.

Find upcoming Digital Essentials classes and help sessions.

Useful Websites

A large collection of text and video tutorials on a variety of online search topics. Covers both general search strategies and principles as well as some specific pointers for using Google and other search tools more efficiently.

Video and text tutorials on how to use online search engines and interpret the results. Includes a useful section on identifying online ads. Recommended for beginners looking to gain familiarity with online search engines.

Includes easily accessible, broadly applicable online search tips and techniques.

This guide is more focused on academic research, but it gives a very in-depth and systematic introduction to search strategies and techniques. Tutorial six, in particular, gives some good tips for search engines. Good for experienced searchers looking to take their searching to the next level.

Digital Library Resources

Education Subject Icon

LinkedIn Learning offers video courses in business, computer technology, software, and creative skills, all conducted by experts in their fields.

New to LinkedIn Learning? View a video tutorial or visit the LinkedIn Learning FAQ page for more information.

Access:
Everywhere for VPL cardholders
Language and Literature Subject Icon

Enjoy an extensive selection of ebooks and audiobooks on your ereader, browser or download the Libby app for your smartphone or tablet. For more information see our help guide.

Access:
Everywhere for Vancouver residents
Business and Careers Subject Icon

Trial update: O’Reilly will continue to be offered on a trial basis through December 2025.

Contains a vast collection of technology and business ebooks, audiobooks, videos, courses, and more. A great resource for professional development.

Access:
Everywhere for Vancouver residents

Recommended Titles

Cover Image for Power Searching the Internet the Librarian's Quick Guide

Power Searching the Internet the Librarian's Quick Guide

Hennig, Nicole

025.0425 H51p

2019

Search like a librarian! This guide is intended for librarians, but it has a wealth of tools, tips, and tricks for anyone looking to sharpen their searching skills.

Cover Image for The Joy of Search: A Google Insider's Guide to Going Beyond the Basics

The Joy of Search: A Google Insider's Guide to Going Beyond the Basics

Russell, Daniel, 1955-

004.67 R96j

2019

This is a highly recommended resource. This book is packed with useful tasks, tips, and tools to help users search more efficiently and get the most out of online tools like Google, Google Earth, and Wikipedia.

Cover Image for Finding Reliable Information Online: Adventures of An Information Sleuth

Finding Reliable Information Online: Adventures of An Information Sleuth

Stebbins, Leslie F., 1958-

025.0425 S81f

2015

This book gives readers techniques and tips to help ensure the information they find from searching is reliable and accurate.