Howdy silentrunning,
I don't have software to share, but I would offer a strong encouragement to use a database rather than an XL sheet. In most Dbases, you can create a launch button to open an external file (probably a pdf?).
The Dbase would also be easily searchable, and has good granular control of who can add, delete or alter the records.
All of this is possible with a spreadsheet, just like you can pound in a nail using a wrench, but a database seems like the more appropriate tool for the job. Is this an option for you?