Sometimes a brief search will be done on a subject just to find out how many articles there are on that subject, without printing out the citations to the articles themselves. This type of search may help patrons become familiar with the subject headings related to their topic. The references are often called hits or postings. Directories Like print directories these files have the needed information in the entry itself. For example, there are biographical directories like Who's Who and Contemporary Authors.
Many telephone directories are also available online.
You often will not know whether the reference question you refer requires an electronic search. A detailed, thorough reference interview which concentrates on finding the patron's underlying need is the most helpful way to refer these questions. As patrons become more aware of these files, many specifically request searches of electronic databases. You need to refer to your own library's policies about how these are handled. ORE on the Web, Ohio Library Council, 2000.