Database Evaluation GeoScienceWorld (GSW)

Answer

**Publisher:** GeoScienceWorld
**Subjects Covered:** Geology, geophysics, geochemistry, paleontology, earth structure, mineralogy, and environmental geoscience.

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Overview

GeoScienceWorld (GSW) is an integrated research platform providing access to peer-reviewed journals, books, and conference proceedings from leading geological societies and publishers. It combines GeoRef indexing with full-text content, allowing users to explore scholarly literature in all branches of the Earth and environmental sciences. For South Dakota Mines, GSW supports research in geology, geological engineering, mining, and environmental science, serving as a cornerstone resource for both academic study and applied fieldwork.

Scope and Content

  • Coverage Dates: 1905–present, depending on publication.
  • Content Types: Peer-reviewed journals, eBooks, meeting abstracts, and geological maps.
  • Societies and Publishers: Geological Society of America (GSA), SEPM, AGU, Mineralogical Society of America, Canadian Science Publishing, and others.
  • Core Journals: Geology, GSA Bulletin, Lithosphere, Geochemical Perspectives Letters, Journal of Sedimentary Research.
  • Access Model: Subscription-based full-text access through Devereaux Library.
  • Update Frequency: Continuous with new issues as published.

Strengths

  • Comprehensive Earth science coverage with peer-reviewed, high-impact journals.
  • Includes publications from major international geological societies.
  • Integrates with GeoRef for citation tracking and indexing.
  • Full-color figures, maps, and datasets enhance understanding of geoscientific data.
  • Highly relevant to Mines research areas in geology, mining, and environmental studies.
  • Supports historical and current research continuity in the geosciences.

Limitations

  • Focused on Earth sciences; limited interdisciplinary coverage beyond geology.
  • Does not include engineering-focused journals (e.g., ASCE or IEEE).
  • Some publications require society membership for full access.
  • Interface less integrated with citation tools like those in ProQuest or EBSCO.
  • Archival coverage varies by society or publisher agreement.

Best For

  • Students and faculty in Geology & Geological Engineering programs.
  • Researchers analyzing geologic formations, mineral resources, and tectonic processes.
  • Environmental scientists examining Earth systems and hazards.
  • Graduate students preparing theses and literature reviews in geoscience disciplines.
  • Faculty developing course materials and regional field studies.

Complementary Databases

Need

Recommended Source

Comprehensive geoscience indexing

GeoRef (EBSCOhost)

Engineering applications of geology

Engineering Village, ASCE Library

Earth and environmental systems research

Earth, Atmospheric & Aquatic Science Database (ProQuest)

Open access geological datasets

AGU Digital Library, USGS Publications Warehouse

Regional and historical South Dakota geology

Digital Library of South Dakota (DLSD)

Overall Evaluation

GeoScienceWorld (GSW) is a premier resource for Earth and environmental science research. Its integration of society publications and GeoRef indexing makes it indispensable for geologists, environmental scientists, and engineers. At South Dakota Mines, GSW supports academic and field-based learning by providing comprehensive access to peer-reviewed literature and geoscientific data. It should be featured on the A‑to‑Z Databases list and in Geology, Environmental Science, and Mining Engineering LibGuides as a primary resource for geological research.

 

Ask Digby – Library Help

Need help locating articles in GeoScienceWorld or finding geological data? Ask Digby, the Devereaux Library’s friendly prairie dog mascot! Digby can help you connect to GeoScienceWorld, explore related databases, and locate geological research for your projects.

πŸ“§ Email: library@sdsmt.edu

🌐 Chat: Ask Digby
πŸ”— Library Catalog (Primo): https://sdsmt.primo.exlibrisgroup.com

πŸ“ Devereaux Library, South Dakota Mines, Rapid City, SD

  • Last Updated Oct 31, 2025
  • Views 2
  • Answered By Library Services

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