Considers pros and cons of using personal computers or microcomputers in a library and information setting. Highlights include discussions about the physical environment, security, effects on users, costs in terms of time and money, micro-mainframe links, and standardization considerations. (Author/LRW)

This essay on the management of microcomputer use in organizations highlights problem areas associated with the central issue of control: acquisition of hardware and software, compatibility, security, data integrity, training, documentation, and the isolation factor. Establishment of a microcomputer information center for education, promotion,…

A general description of microcomputer-based spreadsheet software capabilities and their usefulness in library management analysis and planning are presented. Five specific spreadsheet models which apply to retrospective conversion cost and scheduling, COM and book catalog costs, and acquistions processing costs are discussed and displayed in…

Describes LOTUS 1-2-3, an advanced spreadsheet with database and text manipulation functions that can be used with microcomputers by librarians to provide customized calculation and data acquisition tools. Macro commands and the menu system are discussed, and an example is given of an invoice procedure. (Author/LRW)

Describes a survey on the use of microcomputers in special libraries. The discussion of the findings includes types of hardware and software in use; applications in public services, technical processes, and administrative tasks; data back-up techniques; training received; evaluation of software; and future plans for microcomputer applications. (1…

Describes a Wisconsin program that successfully computerized the libraries of the entire school system, making them more efficient and enabling better use of professional staff time. (MD)

Describes the emphasis of decision support systems as being on the decision making process itself, rather than the flow of information; reviews the uses of microcomputers in libraries in recent years; and compares five decision modeling software packages. An appendix lists the name, manufacturer's address, price, and hardware requirements of each…

This directory is designed to allow media specialists in regional areas of Oklahoma to share their experiences in computer applications for libraries. The first of two sections lists schools using computers for circulation, computerized catalogs, library management, CD-ROM, laser disk programs, and online information systems. Schools are listed…

Examines the need for medium to large academic libraries to have a policy for staff use of microcomputers. Key issues that should be covered in such a policy are outlined, including rules for acquisition and use, compatibility of hardware and software, and data administration. A model policy is provided. (CDD)

Descriptions of microcomputer software packages currently available in Australia emphasize those used by special and school libraries. Software for library management functions, text retrieval, and database management systems are included, and geographical distribution is examined. The need for professional development courses in software…

Describes some of the available software and hardware tools that can be used to develop a decision support system implemented on microcomputers. Activities that should be supported by software are discussed, including data entry, data coding, finding and combining data, and data compatibility. Hardware considerations include speed, storage…

Stresses the importance of clearly establishing goals for and level of services to be offered by academic library microcomputer centers when determining staff requirements. Questions to be considered when developing goals and a profile of the majority of tasks involved in center operation provide some guidelines for the planning process. (EM)

This digest presents a reprint of an article which examines management principles that should be considered when implementing library end user searching programs. A brief discussion of specific implementation issues includes needs assessment, hardware, software, training, budgeting, what systems to offer, publicity and marketing, policies and…

This document, the 10th in a series distributed annualy to provide a central source of timely information and materials on the management and operations of large academic and research libraries, presents the results of a 1984 Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) survey of microcomputer use in the Association of Research Libraries (ARI)…