CCSA's library was first established in 1990 as the National Clearinghouse on Substance Abuse and is one of the oldest addiction information services in Canada. On April 1, 2008, the library became part of the Communications and Corporate Services portfolio at CCSA.
Library Collection
Library staff maintain a collection of over 11,000 items in both print and electronic format. The core of the collection includes documents, publications and grey literature pertaining to addiction and use or problem use of alcohol, licit and illicit drugs and other psychoactive substances. Also included is information on related topics such as HIV/AIDS, homelessness, gambling, mental health and tobacco where there is significant content overlap with the core topics. Access to the collection is available by searching the online catalogue.
Information Specialists
CCSA's Information Specialists provide specialized reference services to CCSA staff. They can also respond to requests from the Canadian addictions community on issues related to alcohol and drugs.