I want to access the Oxford English Dictionary Second Edition but I want to know should I buy the CD-Rom version or go to the site and pay for a subscription? Do both versions come with the supplement?
The thing is, I want to use the version that’s the most up-to-date.
Questions.
Where do you live. Have you checked with your local library to see if they offer the OED online version. You might have to go to the library to use it. You might be able to access it online from home. It varies. Also, many Universities have the online version, and you can go there and access it(ask at the reference desk).
If your local library has it, the online version is updated all the time. Quite a nice thing. State of the art. They are currently working in the R-T range, I believe.
If you need something looked up, I can do this.
The first thing to do is check whether your local library provides access to the on-line edition.
For most of Northeast Ohio, (for example), the majority of library systems have an arrangement whereby you can log on to the OED through the library website using your library card as your ID.
The on-line version appears to be continuously updated, so it will be more current than any CD.
ETA: Shoulda knowed that Sam would be in here if I took the time to verify my information.
Thank you. I was considering using the site, but doesn’t that get expensive?
But how often is the CD-Rom updated?
If it’s done through your library, they pay for it and you get to use it free. Usually it will ask you to type in your library card number, so the subscription is limited to actual library users, not someone in another state.
I don’t think my library has it. I think they just have the book version.
But buying the CD-Rom is better than buying the book version, I was told. Am I right?
The latest version, 2007 OED on CD-ROM (v. 3.11), apparently contains the full text of the 1989 OED2, plus supplements (printed through 1997). So no, it’s the same as the book.
The only way to get access to data from the 3rd edition (which won’t be finished until 2037 or thereabouts) is online. One year subscription is $295; one month is $29.95 (I think).
Libraries with a subscription can let members access the OED from home. Let us know where you live, and we might be able to help you with that.
I live in upstate NY.
New York Public Library has access to OED online, but only onsite. With a library card, you can access many of their other databases from home, but not the OED. However, many local libraries share access to the OED through NYlink: here’s a PDF with the names of all the member libraries: nylink.org - nylink Resources and Information.
Og yes! The book version is 20 enormous volumes, plus supplements; it’s not particularly portable or easy to handle. It weights around 70 kilograms, and takes up maybe two metres of shelf space.
You should see the large-print edition.