Most of the media now have capabilities to receive press releases online. Our Automated Press Release Service is the largest database of media contacts online now has over 11,000 contacts in 37 countries. A press release is written and distributed to these contacts via a list server. However, they have been known to contact people for an in-depth article. And never include an attachment.
Clipping services are almost non-existent online.
And those that may be available only look at major publications. Search for those sites that link to you rather than search for a keyword. The piece submitted to the press as well as any releases printed becomes content for your site and for your press kits. They are a way for people to find you and, in many cases, there are specialized search engines dedicated to specific industries or functions. Each search engine has different criteria for submission, and you have to review them all to understand their criteria.