Google has announced the launch of Google Base, a free online service where users can submit all types of online and offline content that Google will host and make searchable online.

Google Base is an extension of Google’s existing content collection efforts such as its traditional web crawl system – as well as Google Sitemaps, Google Print and Google Video – all which enable content owners to make their information searchable via Google. The goal of Google Base is to improve the overall quality and breadth of Google Search results by collecting even more information about a wider diversity of content, the company said.

Similar to a database, Google Base enables content owners to describe and assign attributes to the information they upload and uses this meta-data to better target search results to what users are looking for.

For example, if a chef chooses to upload their very best recipe for tamales he/she can further describe that recipe with a photo or by assigning attributes such as "medium-spicy" or "spicy." When a user searches for the word [tamale recipes] from the Google Base homepage they will be presented with a list of recipe results accompanied by a list attributes at the top of page which enable them to further refine their search to "medium-spicy" or "hot" tamale recipes.

As part of the early-stage beta, Google has been working with a variety of commercial and non-commercial information providers. Some of which include:

* ArtNet – an online art information source and marketplace is uploading information on artworks, artists, galleries and auction records.

* CareerBuilder – an online job listing site is uploading its listings with various attributes including geographic location, field of profession and other information.

* Collegeboard.org – a not-for-profit membership organization is uploading free information for students and parents about college admissions, financial aid, college selection, and other college planning resources.

* StepUp – a local shopping services company uploading product lists from a variety of local retailers so that people searching can learn where to by products from stores near them.

* World Resources Institute – an environmental think tank is uploading links to data on sustainability issues such as climate change, human health, and resource consumption.