Librarians use the criteria below for evaluating resources and selecting high quality items for each knowledge path. This set is based on criteria developed by Cecilia Durkin, MSLS, AHIP from the seminar, Evaluating web resources, CAPCON Library Network (1997). Most of the items in this list also apply to print resources. The NCEMCH resource development policy (1999) is also used as a selection guide.

• Accuracy - Information contained in the knowledge path selections must be accurate, verifiable, and peer reviewed.
  
  
• Authority - Selections must be from an authoritative source.
  
  
• Objectivity - Selections must be educational in nature and not for the purpose of making a profit. Selections must meet the information needs of the audience for whom the knowledge path is intended.
  
  
• Currency - Selections must be very recent (publications written in the last 2 years or Web sites that are frequently updated); an older item may be considered if it sets the foundation for future research (e.g., a Surgeon General's report).
  
  
• Coverage - Selections must specifically address the knowledge path topic. Resources must be public health oriented and not clinical in nature. Resources that describe and/or evaluate programs and/or discuss "lessons learned" are particularly helpful to the MCH community and are often added to our paths.
  
  
• Access - Web sites and other electronic resource selections must be easily accessible and navigable. If not and the selection is essential to the path, we'll add navigational tips for the user.

Please take a moment to give us feedback about our knowledge paths.