SQL

April 1, 2006
SQL is the standard programming language for creating, manipulating, and retrieving information stored in relational databases; most libraries should own one or more guides. SQL Cookbook, a comprehensive source of code samples (or -recipes -) that shows developers how to solve common problems, compares solutions from different database management systems (DBMS), including SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MySQL, and DB2. Each recipe contains a problem, a solution (with code samples from each platform), and a brief discussion and range from concatenating column values to searching for mixed alphanumeric strings. A great purchase for all medium and larger libraries as a supplement to basic how-to guides.

The three other titles each target beginners. A good self-study guide, SQL Demystified incorporates chapter quizzes and a -Final Exam - to test mastery. From a basic introduction to relational databases through SQL performance and tuning, Demystifie clearly introduces SQL concepts and points out where implementations on various platforms differ. Its conversational style and clear examples recommend it for all libraries. SQL: Visual QuickStart Guide moves from an overview of various DBMS to how to execute transactions. A nice layout shows both code samples and results, usage differences among DBMS are explained, a companion web site contains sample files, and an appendix lists standard SQL keywords. Clear prose and a sense of humor make this a winner for all libraries. Examples in Learning SQL run on MySQL, Oracle, and SQL Server, but the platform used in the book itself is (the free) MySQL. Coverage ranges from a background on databases to indexes and constraints; step-by-step examples and chapter exercises help readers learn independently. Appropriate for all libraries.

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