Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book reviews the functions and use of bibliographic access systems—catalogs, indexes, abstracts, and bibliographies and explains how search strategies can be effectively applied to research tasks. The intellectual challenge of German studies arises not only out of the diversities of German civilization, but also out of the complexities of library research. German studies offer English-speaking students many rewards and challenges. The more typical manifestations of German society and culture can be equally fascinating to the curious student of human nature. In the case of German studies, the difficulties are compounded because of the interdisciplinary nature of the field, resulting in the scattering of the subject throughout the library. Despite the complexities of library research, students of German studies can and do become accomplished researchers.