Patents as Scientific and Technical Literature

by Richard D. Walker

Overview

Several developments have contributed to the discovery that patents are an invaluable source of scientific information: the new accessibility via computerized databases, the expanded coverage of patents into such areas as biotechnology, computer programs, and live animals, improved formats, easier to read text, and expanded bibliographic control. Walker describes the many uses for information found in patents, followed by details of their availability from around the world and the many printed, online, and CD-ROM services designed to make them accessible. Searching techniques and strategies are given to facilitate the use of both subject files and those covering patents exclusively. Librarians and information scientists in general science and technical collections as well as patent searchers in a variety of information agencies will find valuable information in this comprehensive treatment of patent sources.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780810828797
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	04/28/1995
Pages:	546
Product dimensions:	5.70(w) x 8.50(h) x 1.20(d)

About the Author

Richard D. Walker is Professor, School of Library and Information Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Editorial Reviews

You get a lot for your money with this book...content is extensive...historical background enlightening and more universal than other texts...has a good international viewpoint.

The Library Association Record

Patents have only recently been recognized for their value as a source of scientific and technical information. After an introduction to patents, their historical development and current characteristics, this comprehensive treatment of patent sources is a description of the uses to which patents can be put followed by details of their availability from around the world and the many printed, online, and CD-ROM services designed to make them accessible. Searching techniques and strategies are given to facilitate the use of both subject files and those covering patents exclusively. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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