As updates are added to GeoRef, the most comprehensive bibliographic database in the geosciences, each subscriber s predefined profile is run against the new references. Subscribers to the modestly priced Alert Service may now choose to receive the new references by e-mail either every 14 days or once a month. The Alert Service offers subscribers a variety of options for customizing individual search profiles to fit their interests.
Subscribers can also elect to include abstracts from meeting and journal titles.
Once a subscriber s profile has been defined, GeoRef runs a test to determine the average number of references in the field of interest over a period of five years. The subscriber receives a sample update by e-mail and may then refine the profile by expanding or restricting the search parameters. After the profile is set, GeoRef e-mails the 25 most recent references on the subject area to the new subscriber and the regular Alert Service begins. In addition to rapid, e-mail delivery of references, the Alert Service provides continuous coverage of 3,500 journals.