Discusses the reasons and methods for retrospective conversion of library catalog data into machine-readable form. The need for standards is emphasized and suggestions are given for documenting local standards. Ideas are included for completing the conversion of a project done by a vendor, where some parts may have been overlooked. (Author/EM)

This survey of 57 members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) examines technical and management issues in providing remote access to their online catalogs, as well as with instructions and services for remote users. It is noted that most ARL libraries have not yet conducted studies to project the extent of use of remote access, although…

Discusses the flaws in online catalogs that lead to ineffective library use, including confusing subject access, outmoded classification systems, lack of authority control, split files and closed catalogs, lack of both menu and command modes, and lack of circulation information. Recommendations are made for improving library catalogs. (EM)

Describes the Maggie III automated library system, which supports a public access catalog, cataloging interface, bibliographic maintenance, circulation, electronic mail, and community information databases, with acquisitions and serials modules planned. Sidebars describe the community information database's structure, planned use of software by…

Access to online public access library catalogs and similar information networks by scholars in the humanities is discussed. Tools and approaches available for scholars to navigate the systems, their utility and contribution to "location independence" in information seeking, and the evolving relationship between libraries and their…

The papers in this proceedings consider ways in which user friendly interface design may be used to make online systems in public and academic libraries easier to use, and thus more attractive to potential users. A short introduction by F. W. Lancaster is followed by nine papers: (1) "Linking the Unlinkable" (Michael Gorman); (2)…

Six prominent consultants consider the technical dimensions of retrospective conversion, the appropriate standards to employ, the proper relationship of conversion activities to the entire automation project, and several options available for converting a bibliographic database into machine-readable format: online or batch shared cataloging…

Program presentations on issues related to bibliographic control and access to collections and business meeting minutes are combined in this report. Under the program title, "The Sum of the Parts: Sharing Responsibility," the following addresses are included: (1) "The Building Blocks: Elements in a System of Distributed…

Introducing cataloging students, beginning catalogers, copy catalogers, and department administrators to the principles of cataloging, classification, and indexing, this revised text provides a simple, solid foundation for standard practices of cataloging and bibliographic control in the United States and Canada. The book reviews major…

Examines role of cataloger as it has been and is often perceived, and advances view of what role should be. The cataloger's function is discussed in terms of classification and description, automation and change, reclassification as supervisor of nonprofessional staff, cooperation within library, reorganization, and instruction. Thirteen…

Discusses design features of the Online Catalog of LS/2000, OCLC's enhanced version of Integrated Library System. This minicomputer-based system provides bibliographic file maintenance, circulation control, and online catalog searching. Examples of available displays--holdings, full MARC, work forms, keyword entry, index selection, brief citation,…

This report describes a program to expand the Books by Mail program at the Monterey (California) County Library. An introductory section provides background information on the development of the program, and the second section discusses the process of identifying target populations, which include those in geographically remote areas and the…

Intended as a guide and resource for staff and volunteers in small public libraries in Alaska, this manual is divided into the following chapters: (1) "Establishing a Library," which covers the establishment by ordinance or by organization of a non-profit corporation, information on drafting bylaws, and the role and responsibilities of…

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…

Based on the responses of 77 Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries to a December 1986 survey of 106 ARL libraries (a 73% response rate), this report profiles the current state of bibliographic access to federal publications. Following a brief discussion of survey background and methodology, a summary of survey results indicates…