Selection Guidelines for Non-National Library of Medicine Resources
The objective of Enviro-Health Links is to give users a comprehensive review of topics in environmental health and toxicology. Much of its information comes from National Library of Medicine (NLM) resources. Links to resources outside of NLM are included; the Specialized Information Services (SIS) Division of NLM has developed the following guidelines for linking to non-NLM sites that ensure access to reliable information.
Authority, Credibility, and Affiliation
- Emphasis is on U.S. federal and state government resources, major national (scientific societies, professional organizations, etc.), and international organizations (WHO, etc.)
- Sponsorship of the site is clear; the credentials/qualifications of the sponsors are provided
- Sites produced by individuals are not included unless there is no other source of the information; author's name, title, affiliation, and credentials must be provided
- Focus is on non-commercial sites; commercial sites must contain a clear advertising policy; most content must be available at no charge or be clearly labeled if charges apply; site content or presentation cannot cause a reasonable user to infer endorsement of products or services
Content, Coverage, and Currency
- Sites are evaluated to ensure substantive information is provided, and that the information is from primary sources which are cited
- The source for the contents of the Web page(s) and the entity responsible for maintaining the Web site (webmaster, organization, creator of the content) is clear
- Information on the site is unique and not readily available elsewhere; there is a minimum of redundancy and overlap between resources; examples: unique images or a good glossary
- Pages contain a created, revised, or update date
Objectivity
- Information presented is balanced
- Other sources support the information presented
- Site represents facts, not opinions
- No conflicts of interest are apparent; example: advertising by a sponsor
Intended Audience
- Intended audience is clear; both scientific/technical materials and materials for the general public are provided
- The primary purpose of the Web page is educational
Technical
- Links on the site are reliable and relevant
- Site is consistently available
- Site is well-organized and easily navigated
- Registration, an account, or password is not required to access site information; if registration is requested, how that data is used is clearly stated
Featured Site
- Featured Sites are selected because they reflect aspects of a topic that are of current interest