"ARL" is the bimonthly report on research library issues and actions from ARL (Association of Research Libraries), CNI (Coalition of Networked Information), and SPARC (Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition). "ARL" reports on current issues of interest to academic and research library administrators, staff, and users; higher…

Describes an integrated online library system developed at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) which incorporates a number of database management features that enhance efficiency, for record retrieval and display. Design features related to record storage and retrieval and the design of linked files are described in detail.…

This document is one of ten kits distributed annually by the Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC), a clearinghouse operated by the Association of Research Libraries, Office of Management Studies (ARL/OMS) that provides a central source of timely information and materials on the management and operations of large academic and research…

Describes a computer program designed to manage statistics about online searches which reports the number of searches by vendor, purpose, and librarian; calculates charges to departments and individuals; and prints monthly invoices to users with standing accounts. (CLB)

Suggests ways of using computers to access the periodical literature including integrated public access catalogs; natural language display; network access to area union lists; links between indexing and location tools; access to journal content through the online catalog; broadened search capabilities; and remote user access with document…

Three case studies of organizations that have implemented Cuadra Associate's STAR system, an integrated multiuser hardware and software information management system, describe and evaluate the use of the system with microcomputers within a database services organization, an academic law library, and an academic health sciences library. (CLB)

Describes the downloading capabilities of the WESTMATE version of the WESTLAW retrieval system and compares WESTLAW to LEXIS in terms of downloading functions and costs. The steps involved in WESTLAW access with standard communications software are outlined, and sample screen displays are appended. (CLB)

This report explores the benefits of establishing a centralized automated university information directory of available resources and software. The report covers five areas: (1) it describes the need for a centralized information directory service; (2) it makes recommendations for collecting information on resources and software in use or…

Three articles describe procedures used for retrospective conversion: MITINET/retro system in Wisconsin and efforts to create statewide bibliographic database; retrocon process for Library Computer System circulation/resource-sharing system in Illinois academic libraries; use of REMARC to build online catalog at Johns Hopkins University. Authority…

Describes the Pacific Northwest Conspectus Database, a regional resource assessment tool which includes information about library collections in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Use of the database by academic, public, and special librarians to better manage their collections and to coordinate planning and purchasing with other…

Describes government information available in machine-readable data files--primarily on computer tapes--in relation to other formats and examines requirements for their acquisition, preservation, and utilization in retrieval and reference services. Skill and knowledge adjustments on the part of librarians are also discussed, and a system in use at…

This 5-year departmental strategic plan (1988-1993) was developed according to the strategic planning process adopted by Arizona State University (ASU). Nine goals of ASU's Cataloging Department are presented in separate sections in this report: (1) to continue the development and improvement of the intellectual content of the online catalog so…

Reviews arguments for and against fees for online services and describes a supply side model in which the library absorbs the costs of online searching. The implementation of this policy at an academic library is evaluated and detailed guidelines for implementing such a policy are provided. (CLB)

Outlines the evaluation criteria used by the reference department at the Williams Library at the University of Mississippi in selecting databases and hardware used in CD-ROM workstations. The factors discussed include database coverage, costs, and security. (CLB)

In the first of two articles, William Potter discusses the drawbacks and opportunities presented by advances in technology, including budgeting for online access, dealing with publishers and producers, and relating to computing centers. In the second, Paul Metz discusses collection development in academic libraries with emphasis on new electronic…