I am pleased to announce that Columbia University Libraries has recently purchased the Vinograd Thesaurus of the Hebrew Book.  This database, available only on DVD, is a very-much updated version of the print edition (located in Butler Reference: R016.4924 V56).  This searchable database lists of all books printed in Hebrew characters from 1468-1948 (including Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino, and Judeo-Arabic).

The database lists title, author, publication information (date, place, and printer), and pagination, as well as the source for the identification of the book (sometimes this is a reference work; sometimes it is a physical library).  Additional notes, indicating language (if other than Hebrew) and previous auction sale information, are very useful.  It is a very good resource for finding and identifying Hebrew-script books, and, used in conjunction with the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book (available only from a Columbia computer), is invaluable for research in the Hebrew book.

The DVD can be accessed by contacting Michelle Chesner, Librarian for Jewish Studies (mc3395@columbia.edu; 212-854-8046).