The pages of authoritative and well known agencies such as the Mayo Clinic, the U. S. Census Bureau, a Fortune 500 company or Harvard University often provide more reliable information than the Web pages of a hobbyist dabbling in the subject area, or a special interest group such as Heaven's Gate . Subscription Web databases that are purchased by UF or other academic institutions are highly reliable. Choose sources from established publishers over ones about which you know little. Use reference books in the library or online reference sources to learn about the publisher. Give preference to i nformation from government agencies, trade and professional associations, major universities or organizations and research centers.
Webmasters maintaining reputable and active sites redirect users to new locations of Web pages.
Reliable sources list the dates that revisions are made on Web pages. While it is very easy to find current news and information on the free Web and through subscription Web services, most authoritative historical information is often not available via the Internet. Be sure to consult books, bibliographies and print indexes to journal literature, etc. Often the latest issue of a magazine is available on the Web before the library receives the print issue. The Web is a good place to find the latest discussion and public opinion on an issue.