CD-ROMs

CD-ROM refers to Compact Discs - Read Only Memory. CD-ROM is a storage medium that stores large amounts of information in a digital format that it is accessed optically via digital translation devices such as computer systems. A CD-ROM drive uses a low-power laser beam to read digitized (binary) data that have been encoded onto an optical disc in the form of tiny pits, and then feeds the data to a computer for processing. Because it uses digital data, a CD-ROM can store images and sound in addition to text and is thus used in video and audio devices to store music, graphics, and movies .Unlike conventional magnetic-storage technologies (e.g., hard disks), CD-ROM drives cannot write information (that is, accept the input of new data), hence the tag "read-only." Recordable compact discs (called CD-R) must be written on a CD-R recorder and can be played on any CD-ROM drive.

CD-ROMs have a capacity of carrying seven hundred and two (702MB) megabytes of data. A larger version of CD-ROMs, known as DVDs (Digital Video Discs) is also commonly used. They store information of up to four gigabytes (4GB).


CD-ROMS and DVDs databases provide learning resources that add to the entire library collection. Importantly, they provide portable resources that can be borrowed by the users and accessed at their place of choice.

In addition, the CD kit comes with support service that help the user to access its contents. They also provide video demonstrations, samples of topics covered as well as links to online resources. Some also provide "flash cards" to test user's knowledge of key concepts covered.

Each of the CD-ROM contains information based on a particular subject area such as economics, sciences, management etc. They are found on the digital library where they are cataloged according to the library of congress system to enhance their circulation.

CD-ROMS are issued to users for a maximum of two (2) hours that are subject to renewal upon user's request.