Information retrieval and the role of the information specialist in producing high-quality systematic reviews in the social, behavioural and education sciences

English The International Campbell Collaboration (C2) prepares, maintains and disseminates high-quality systematic reviews in the social, behavioural and educational sciences. As part of its effort to ensure that systematic reviews are based on a set of systematic, transparent and replicable procedures, C2 has produced a set of policy briefs. One of these, the C2 Information retrieval policy brief , proposes policies for searching the literature for C2 reviews, addresses key issues and challenges faced by C2 reviewers, and recommends working with an information specialist (IS). This article illustrates how the information retrieval issues raised in the brief have been addressed by one C2 review team, through the inclusion of an IS as an integral member of its review team. This unique approach recognises that information retrieval is a continuous and important process, requiring the ongoing expertise of a professional. Cost implications for the provision of ongoing support by an IS are briefly addressed, along with various alternative approaches.