The Invisible Web

A lot of reliable information accessible over the Internet is actually “invisible” to search engines. This hidden information is referred to as the “Invisible Web" and often consists of databases from universities, libraries, businesses, and government agencies.

How can I find information on the Invisible Web?

To find information on the Invisible web, it is important to think differently about how you search. Rather than searching with keywords on your topic, use keywords that may lead you to “hidden” information sources such as searchable databases or organizations.

Below are some tips:

• To find searchable databases on your topic area use a search engine and type in a broad topic keyword plus the term “database”.
  
  Example:
  chemistry AND database
  
  
• Think about who is likely to provide the information you need (e.g. government departments and organizations) and browse within their website.
  
  For example, to find statistics on bullying and violence in Australian schools you may start by searching for an appropriate Australian government department (e.g. NSW Department of Education and Training). Use the advanced features of a search engine to help locate an appropriate site.
  
  Example:
  Type “education” and limit the domain to “gov.au”

Alternatively, some search engines claim to search the Invisible web. Below are some examples:

Direct Search

Incy Wincy: The Invisible Web Search Engine

Be search savvy on the Internet