1998 Canadian Internet Handbook

Jeffrey Moon is head of the Documents Reference/Data Centre at Queen’s
University.

The 1998 Canadian Internet Handbook highlights the exponential changes
that have taken place since the first guide was published in 1994. Four
years ago, the average Canadian knew little about the arcane,
acronym-ridden world of the Internet, and the 1994 Handbook was written
with this in mind. The Internet has since grown and matured, and the
1998 Handbook reflects this shift. In addition to being a useful
reference tool, the guide now tackles some of the “social, legal, and
political issues affecting Internet users in Canada.”

The easy-to-read text is divided into six chapters: “Society &
Culture,” “Government & Legal Issues,” “Business, News &
Media,” “Entertainment & Leisure,” and “Technology.” Each
chapter starts with a brief “highlights” section that helps the
reader zoom in on key issues. Screen images are used effectively to
illustrate various software and Internet resources. Definitions, tips,
trivia, quotes, lists, and anecdotes all contribute to the book’s
overall “almanac” appeal.

For both Internet junkies and newcomers, the 1998 Canadian Internet
Handbook is essential reading.