The Crystal Reference Encyclopedia database currently contains over 48,552 entries relating to all points of knowledge. This comprises 42,966 full text entries; 5,585 'X-see-Y' cross references; 90,403 'see also' cross-references. Some 25,578 are biographical references. In addition the Ready Reference section of tables and statistics run to 410 lists and the 50 Connections Essays.

The database originally formed the basis of all four editions of the Cambridge Encyclopedia for Cambridge University Press and does the same for Penguin Books since the launch of the New Penguin Encyclopedia in late 2002.

The content in print form has been acclaimed as one of the world's leading single volume encyclopedias. It has an unrivalled reputation for its authority and reliability, as well as for the stylishness and concise nature of its entries. The content has been praised for its inclusiveness, and for the clarity of its information.

The coverage is very broad, from people and places to scientific concepts, the media, philosophical ideas, and international issues, and its information is precise and accurate. The coverage of the Crystal Reference Encyclopedia database is characterized by two major themes: its internationalism and up-to-dateness. The database reflects international issues, especially in history, politics and current affairs. For example, most reference works provide information about British monarchs or American presidents, but this databaseuniquely features the rulers of all sovereign states.

The coverage of the database is particularly broad in such subjects as the electronics revolution (especially computer science), space exploration, technology, economics, communications, earth sciences, environmental issues, medicine, and recreation. At the same time, systematic treatment is given to such traditionally popular areas as flora and fauna, history, art, music, literature, theatre, religion, and mythology. Special attention is devoted to the history of ideas, in such fields as philosophy, art, linguistics, literature, sociology, and politics, and serious yet succinct treatment is given to complex intellectual topics. All articles are fully cross referenced to relevant entries within the Crystal Reference content suite.

The database enables can be delivered in up to five individual data formats, dependent upon the client's requirements or the data platform upon which the content is to be used. These formats vary from a full length entry to a shortened- and in some cases a single line- variant.

The data is oganised using Crystal Reference's patented classification scheme which allows for subsections of data to be extracted subject to the client's requirements.

For samples of this content, please visit