You can view FirstSearch databases by topic area or in an alphabetized list. Searching and Retrieval Powerful and easy to use End users love FirstSearch because its interface is simple to understand yet there are plenty of tools for complex searching. No special computer knowledge or online searching training is necessary. Whether you access via Telnet or the World Wide Web, users are guided through the search process in just a few easy steps. Ease of use.
Introductory screens help users formulate their search.
Search results are shown in a numbered list of records in abbreviated form. To see more detail, users simply type in the record's number, or click on the title, and a full record appears. Since FirstSearch is Z39.50 compatible, you can search using your OPAC interface, as long as your local system is also Z39.50 compatible. Users of FirstSearch can type in a few words and usually retrieve records. Or they can use more advanced techniques for precise searching.