The Quest for Full Text: An In-Depth Examination of Pubget for Medical Searchers
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-2010
Volume
29
Issue
4
Journal
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
First Page
307
URL with Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02763869.2010.518911
Last Page
319
Abstract
This article examines Pubget, a free Web-based search engine for life sciences researchers for conducting searches of the medical literature and retrieving full-text PDFs. Its search functionality and add-on features are evaluated to determine potential for library instruction and promotion. With many libraries relying on OpenURL link resolvers to connect searchers with institutional subscriptions, Pubget offers an alternative by combining search, article-level link resolving, and authentication in a single platform. The authors determine advantages and disadvantages for using Pubget based on product testing and make recommendations for institutions interested in “activating” subscriptions in Pubget.