News Release

98-05

National Library of Canada and IHS Publishing Solutions Launch Canadiana on CD-ROM

OTTAWA, June 18, 1998 -- Today, the National Library of Canada introduces a new way for librarians and researchers to access its Canadiana database of 1.2 million bibliographic and authority records. The CD-ROM version of Canadiana: The National Bibliography is being launched at the Canadian Library Association's annual conference in Victoria, British Columbia.

Canadiana on CD-ROM contains all the information previously found in the printed and microfiche versions of the national bibliography, plus a great deal more. As well as descriptions of books, serials, theses, sound recordings, microforms and government documents produced in Canada and of works of special interest to Canada created abroad, the CD-ROM contains the complete file of records created for Canadiana Authorities and Carto-Canadiana. This comprehensive product is convenient, economical and easy to search in both official languages.

"We see Canadiana on CD-ROM as an ideal complement to the services that we currently provide through Access AMICUS," says the National Library's Director of Bibliographic Services David Balatti. "The CD-ROM offers extensive functionality for both the library professional and the independent researcher, and provides users with another option for accessing the Canadiana database."

Peter Van der Grient, Director of Sales for IHS Publishing Solutions, which produces the CD-ROM, says: "IHS PSL is very proud to be part of this important National Library initiative. With Canadiana on CD-ROM, users worldwide can now quickly and accurately search and retrieve valuable bibliographic information from a single, comprehensive, user-friendly Windows product."

Further information on the new format can be found on the National Library of Canada's Web site at: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/canadiana/index-e.html/

The National Library of Canada is responsible for collecting, preserving and promoting access to Canada's published heritage. A major resource for research in Canadian studies, and for the promotion of Canadian literature and music, the National Library also plays a key role in fostering library development and facilitating resource sharing among Canadian libraries.

IHS Publishing Solutions develops full-service technology solutions for organizations seeking to capitalize on their extensive information assets through innovative and powerful information management, retrieval and distribution technologies for electronic publishing applications. For more information, telephone 613-225-2300 or 1-800-267-3470.

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Contact:

David Balatti, Director of Bibliographic Services
Telephone: 819-994-6912
Fax: 819-997-7517
E-mail: canadiana@lac-bac.gc.ca
Web address: http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca

IHS Publishing Solutions Limited
Contact: Kate Holmes, Marketing Manager
Telephone: 613-225-2300 ext. 248
Fax: 613-225-2304