Catalogue

The sources listed in this directory are government agencies, professional associations, private organizations, and the like that publish booklets, pamphlets, publication lists, brochures, and other materials that are free or cost less than $15. The unnumbered entries are arranged alphabetically under more than 500 topics (also listed alphabetically in the table of contents), making the book easy for novices to use. Although most headings are easily understandable, a few consist of technical terms ("Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome"). Each entry gives the name of the organization; address; phone, fax, and TDD/TDY numbers; a sentence on the purpose and operations of the organization; and sketchy information regarding the titles of publications, their contents, and prices. Some entries are repeated. The titles of publications are omitted from the index, so readers must know the issuing organization. There are no cross-references. The compiler reminds readers not to forget their local resources, such as hospitals, public health departments, counseling centers, libraries (particularly government document depositories), and government offices. The use of boldface makes this volume easy to read. Unfortunately, no Internet addresses are provided, a surprising omission, since much free information is now available over the Web, as well as online order forms. This title is useful, but better organization and editing would have improved it, and the price seems high, since the book seems intended for general readers rather than the health professions. Suitable for reference collections, particularly those that lack access to other printed or online directories. L. A. Blewett; University of Chicago

Intended for an audience of teachers, librarians, health professionals, and the general public, this up-to-date directory compiles sources of free material on health. The subject matter covers 512 topics from the prosaic to the more complex, from air quality, drug abuse, and nutrition to brain and spinal cord tumors, fetal alcohol syndrome, and reconstructive plastic surgery. Drawing on the same kinds of organizations as Susan Detwiler's Detwiler's Directory of Health and Medical Resources (LJ 6/15/98), this volume is similar in content but with a different emphasis. By its own admission, though, its coverage is limited. Entries, many of which recur under various topics, list mailing addresses and phone and FAX numbers followed by descriptions of obtainable materials with titles, page counts, costs (if any), and formats included. While most of the data are available elsewhere, this reference may be convenient for those seeking to supplement standard resources. For all health collections.‘Marilyn Rosenthal, Nassau Community Coll. Lib., Garden City, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.