Most discussion lists have an archive, and the following strategy for
searching usually works:

1. Address the posting to the listserv (example: [log in to unmask])

2. Leave the subject line blank

3. Type the following text, inserting your own information in the <brackets>
(do not include the brackets in your actual posting however):

        //ListSrch JOB Echo=no
        Database Search DD=Rules
        //Rules DD *
        S <topic word or words> in <List name> since dd-mm-yy
        index date.8 sender.30 subject.40
        print
        /*
        // EOJ

4. Do not include your signature box at the end of the posting

As an example, a subject line might read:

        s (exhibit or exhibits) in Museum-l since 010196

I have found that some lists reverse the dates, which would require you to
request the date 960101...  In other words, if your search doesn't bring
back what you expect, try something different.

Your can use Boolean logic (and, or, not) with your search terms, which will
refine your search.

And remember, some lists only keep archives for a limited number of months.

Good luck

Liz Ackert

At 01:50 AM 1/23/96 -0500, you wrote:
>Larisa Overmier in a message dated Jan 22, makes reference to an archive from
>which we may retrieve past email.  Is there one?
>Mindy Lehrman Cameron
>[log in to unmask]
>

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