Media release

Epic beginning for Hamilton City Libraries

Posted On: Wednesday, 16 June 2004

Hamilton City Libraries has joined other New Zealand Libraries to buy a great new selection of electronic resources, called EPIC.

Reference services team leader Jeff Downs says it's a comprehensive information tool of use to all library users.

"There are approximately 16,000 full text titles available, along with tens of thousands of biographies, newswires, photographs and graphics, and much more. Through our website www.hamiltonlibraries.co.nz Hamilton City Libraries is now home to these electronic resources, which are divided into two suites called Ebsco and Gale.

"Can't find a good read? Using Gale you can browse the What Do I Read Next database. Here you can search for books by looking at bestseller lists or by searching for prize-winners - you can even type in the title of a book you enjoyed and find a similar one.

"Or if you'd like information about Peter Jackson, you can access the Gale Biography Resource Centre, type in Peter Jackson - much like you would on Google or any other Internet search engine - and a list of available biographies and resources about Peter Jackson will appear."

The EPIC resources also include full text articles from a range of New Zealand and Australian publications via Ebsco, and Gale's Opposing Viewpoints database (perfect for seeing both sides of an argument). There's a resource designed specifically for school students, a world history collection, and much more.

Most of the EPIC resources are accessible from your work or home. Go to www.hamiltonlibraries.co.nz and click on Online Resources. Have your library card ready, as access to Ebsco and Gale requires your unique card number (patron ID). Access is also available onsite at the Hamilton Central Library.