National Index to Chinese Newspapers & Periodicals (NICNP) was launched in 1955. Edited by Shanghai Library, it is the earliest comprehensive Chinese newspapers and periodicals search tool issued in China. Published in both print and electronic formats, it is mainly oriented towards the users of research institutes, public libraries and universities.

The paper version of NICNP is a monthly publication, consisting of Philosophy & Social Sciences edition and Natural Science & Technology edition.

The electronic version of NICNP was first created in 1993 and later received the blessing of the Chinese Ministry of Culture. Now, it has become a super index database covering information for over one and a half centuries from 1833 to the present. It lists about 18,000 kinds of newspapers and periodicals published in China. The database contains over 30 million entries, with a yearly update of 3.5 million entries.

NICNP website (www.cnbksy.com) was launched in 2005. With its rich information, long retrospective period and convenient access, it provides users with comprehensive and professional services.