To support information retrieval
The library also offers a wide range of tools for independent information retrieval.
Information retrieval
The number of different databases online is enormous, and information can be found for every purpose.
For independent information retrieval, we have compiled useful tips and links on this site to help you get started. The library’s customer and information service will assist you with your information retrieval if necessary.
Support for searching the material
Knowing the classification system and subject headings used in public libraries will help you search for material in libraries. It is also a good idea to review the basic practices of information retrieval.
YKL is a classification system for public libraries. The website helps users understand the shelving system used in libraries.
YSA is a general Finnish thesaurus. The website lists keywords used in cataloguing library materials.
Guidance on searching for information can be found on the Kirjastot.fi website. The basics of searching for information are compiled there.
Databases
Various databases are also needed for material and information retrieval.
Finna contains material from various archives, libraries and museums. The site offers lea ing materials, archive material and images. You can also view material from several public libraries with a single search.
Jou al.fi is a joint online service for scientific jou als. Over 140 Finnish scientific publications are available free of charge.
The National Library is a cultural heritage organisation open to everyone. It serves citizens, scientific communities and other actors in society nationwide.
The special libraries website contains a list and links to various special libraries.
Kirjasampo is a literary online service provided by Finnish libraries. The website offers many ways to search for information about books and authors. The service also publishes edited content: articles, news, tips and book lists.
Sivupiiri is a Kirjasampo website that focuses on children’s and young adult literature.
Risingshadow is Finland’s largest website dedicated to science fiction and fantasy literature.
Other useful links
You may find other useful sources for your information search on these websites.
On the Ask a Librarian website, you can ask questions about information sources, literature or almost anything else. The questions are answered by information search professionals working at the library.
Finlex is a public and free online service owned by the Ministry of Justice that provides access to legal materials.
Kirjastokaista features author interviews, reading tips and perspectives on libraries.
Makupalat contains several links to information searches.
This content has been translated using AI