Smithsonian on Disc, 4th edition, contains the catalog of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries, a group of nineteen libraries mainly based in or around Washington, D.C. CD Searcher 2.1 retrieval software serves as the search engine. Boolean searches on all fields and formats allow the user to access this major collection of historical artifacts, books, and materials primarily focused on but not limited to American history. The product can run directly from the CD‐ROM drive or can be installed on a computer. Once installed, the user can customize the start‐up screen, the help chapters, the brief and full displays of bibliographic records, and other aspects for local use. The product requires an IBM PC‐compatible computer with at least 512 KB RAM and a CD‐ROM drive with MSCDEX 2.0 or higher. Technical support information is given at the bottom of every page of the user’s guide.
This CD is an important addition to any library requiring access to the bibliographic information contained in the Smithsonian Libraries and their collections. Prospective buyers of this product with Z39.50 capabilities should first check to see whether access to these collections is available through this method before purchasing the CD. I highly recommend the CD, as it runs smoothly and efficiently with the CD Searcher 2.1 software. It is easy to use and understand and provides information and access to one of the best library collections in the United States.
