摘要:We described our experiences of online search service in IMIC (International Medical Information Center) and discussed search strategy of MEDLARS. As a prior condition of the search, we distinguish JOIS-MEDLARS from NLM-MEDLINE, and at the first step of the search we recognize that whether we choose use machine search or manual search is determined according to several types of questions. Processes of construction of search formula were also described. It is especially important to understand indexing policy of MEDLARS. Subject analysis, conversion into MeSH term, and some problems of search formula by Boolean algebra were discussed. In the online dialog system, we can change the strategy according to the system's response. Therefore, before we start the search, we must construct a few different formula of search. At the final step it is necessary to record the search process and the result for statistical analysis probably including cost analysis. In conclusion, we emphasized the necessity of the user education by the JICST as the MEDLARS Center in Japan. We suggest that it is only the first step of computerization to introduce the JOIS system, and that in the near future medical librarians will be require to pay attention to other online services.