Much of what librarians do today requires adeptness in creating and manipulating databases. Many new computers bought by libraries every year come packaged with Microsoft Office and include Microsoft Access. This database program features a seamless interface between Microsoft Office's other programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This book…

Describes features of existing software packages for circulation control (borrower and item files, data capture and verification, issue, return, renewal, loan conditions, reservations, overdues, updating, and management information), and serials control (ordering, recording receipt, reader access, binding and financial control, listings, and…

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…

Examines the potential of libraries and information technology as resources available to those who must plan for and deal with emergency situations. Information support for decision making, a range of types of disasters, alternative uses of advanced information technology, and articles by librarians on emergency management are discussed.…

Describes use of computer software to improve staff preparedness for emergencies that may strike the library. Highlights include the Emergency Information System (EIS), which uses integrated emergency management databases with computer graphic maps of the surrounding area and floor plans of the library. Non-emergency applications of the software…