Library and information services of the International Tin Research Institute

The library of the International Tin Research Institute houses a unique collection of material on all aspects of tin. The wide range of subjects covered, from 18th century tinplate production to modern organotin biocides, and the information explosion of recent years, has necessitated the introduction of a new, hierarchical, indexing system. Lack of storage space in the library has been overcome by the use of a microfilm reader/printer and by storing abstracts obtained from abstract journals rather than obtaining full copies of papers immediately. The other information services of the Development Department include the production of a quarterly journal, an annual report, various technical publications and technical films. A free and confidential advisory service is offered to industry by the Institute.