Different on‐line database resources are described. Database producers and vendors are defined, and a summary of available technical and business chemical databases presented. Scientists dealing with chemicals have the advantage that a chemical structure is a unique presentation. Regardless of their languages, researchers in Japan or in New Zealand will have the same understanding of a chemical structure. A number of sections in this article deal with this unique characteristic of chemistry. Searching for structures using the Chemical Abstract Registry Number, which represents a chemical structure in files such as Registry, Beilstein, and DARC is described. Another challenge to searchers in finding specific physical data is addressed in Numeric, Spectra, and Reaction sections. Patents have significant influence in providing funds to researchers by both industrial and academic sectors. Available databases are discussed and information regarding both on‐line and CD‐ROM presented. Environmental and safety aspects of chemicals in our daily life are taking a predominate role and available on‐line and private information is discussed. Other resources to aid individuals in dealing with searching and storing data are discussed.

On‐Line Database Resources Chemical Information and Search Methods and Services Patent Information and Search Methods/Services Environmental and Safety Information and Search Methods and Services On‐Line Search Aids Optical Disk‐Based Information and Document Image Systems Private Bibliographic and Text Databases