PURPOSE: To simplify an operation when a distributed retrieval system is used.

CONSTITUTION: A host computer judges whether or not a user identification code is held with terminal equipment by a user ID code reading means 8 or the user identification code inputted from the input device of the terminal equipment is read in and a distributed system can be used, and permits the use of the distributed system to the terminal equipment for which it is judged that the distributed system can be used by the terminal equipment. It is judged whether or not a function to display a graphic symbol is attached on the terminal equipment receiving permission, and initialization of graphic symbol display is performed on the terminal equipment for which it is judged that it is provided with the function by a graphic symbol display initializing means 6, and the pattern information of the graphic symbol to which retrieval is instructed from the terminal equipment is sent out to and displayed on a graphic symbol display means 3.