Encyberpedia Index is provided by Voltage.com, the Web site hosting service of Windows 2000. This index is an enumeration of links to search engines and Internet sites. In the initial summary of lists on the home page, 19 general categories of links identify such topics as the home, biography, money, sports, and health. A click on a selection brings forth numerous subdivisions. Curious users will find many more general categories listed in the index portion of the site. Links in the Information Sites list offer another array of subjects. A few popular ones are weather, maps, history, dictionaries, encyclopedias, market news and space sites. Those caught up in current Y2K matters can access the Y2K Bug site. Taking concerns a step further, they may also visit Y5B Bug, the day the sun burns out.
In addition to the Information Site list, there is Internet Malls and Services. Selecting from that list, one can connect to Scripophily.com, seller of old stock and bond certificates in the world, check on Web Hosting Services, and get information on matters such as setting up Web pages, advertising on the Internet and buying reference books, visit CyberTicket Travel, or look at a Reseller opportunity to mention a few of the options. Those trying this Internet index should not let the brief listings of categories give a false impression. There is a massive amount of information accessible via links in Encyberpedia. In comparison to other directories such as refdesk.com http://www.refdesk.com (review in Vol. 3 No. 11) and Britannica Internet Guide http://www.britannica.com (review in Vol. 3 No. 9), the amount of advertising is very routine.
Encyberpedia is prepared with an academic curriculum as its reference. Sites are selected for indexing based on quality of noncommercial information. The reviewer e‐mailed several questions as a trial of the online invitation to contact them. Answers were received within an hour. In assessing management of the index, the question “Is an effort made to block sites inappropriate for children?” was asked. The answer was “Yes, we won’t link to smut.” Kids’ sites are in a separate category on the home page.
A feature of Encyberpedia that is not offered by all indexes is the option to listen to RadioBytes Jukebox while searching the Internet. The reviewer chose a favorite singer from the Jukebox and found that the option worked perfectly. The experience was a treat for someone who daily refers to Internet resources. The Quincy Jones music from around the world option brought forth articles.
The reviewer has tried numerous links and found that some are, as in typical directories, out of date. The site is updated weekly. Response time was rapid. The index’s search level is very easy to use. The only instructions needed are available online. Users need to be familiar with the Windows format. No special equipment is specified as necessary to use Encyberpedia. Netscape Communicator was used in the review. Printing is permitted.
In summary, a comparison of subject categories with those of Britannica Internet Guide, the reviewer noticed a focus on topics more relevant to the general interests of college students and young adults than is immediately noticeable in the Britannica Internet Guide. There is greater emphasis in the broad categories of stocks, travel, and aviation in Encyberpedia.
This site may be a favorite of people who like a little entertainment, an Internet directory, and access to search engines combined with Internet links. Perhaps the greatest appeal will be to those in the dorm, office, or at home. Academic libraries, however, will likely find it to be an optional link for public service computers. The reviewer recommends Encyberpedia. Any library reviewing Internet directories should include Encyberpedia along with Britannica Internet Guide and refdesk. There is a good chance that the librarians, if not the library, will bookmark Encyberpedia for their own personal computers.
