Abstract
Starting with the brief introduction of the indexing services by W. F. Poole and H. W. Wilson, kinds, functions and structures of indexes are discussed. Classification of indexes is considered in comparison with the existing views. Emphasis is put upon the materialized form rather than subjects treated. Significant problems related specially to the selection of articles to be indexed, entry forms different from general cataloging rules, cumulating method and matters involved in publication are carefully examined.
Secondly, after paying attention to the service to index users, the present situation of Japanese indexing services is reviewed.
Thirdly, to clarify the idea and function of indexes, the relationship between them and abstracts of various kinds is mentioned, and finally ten main points necessary for good indexing services are enumerated.
App. I is the annotated list of main indexes by H. W. Wilson Co. and App. II is the significant Japanese works related to indexing.
