This conference paper addresses the abundance of information delivery choices available to academic library online searchers. Following a review of changes and choices that have developed during the past decade, the paper suggests 10 ways for the searcher to keep up to date in this fast changing field: (1) read subject-related journals, system…

Two basic data processing concepts are described: data elements (consisting of bits, bytes, fields, records, and files) and binary characters (standards, hex value, and extended character sets--Greek letters, superscripts, and subscripts). Use of machine-readable data in the OCLC-MARC database is noted. (EJS)

This book provides guidelines for evaluating a variety of database types, including abstracting and indexing, directory, full-text, and page-image databases available in online and/or CD-ROM formats. The book discusses the purpose and techniques of comparing and evaluating the most important characteristics of textual databases, such as their…

Explains the procedures and materials involved in converting a high school's punch-card system to an online database. Identifies the capacities of the new system and highlights its advantages. (ML)

Guidelines for library automation include information on currently available microcomputer-based software products appropriate for small libraries and integrated systems for the larger libraries that can afford them. Costs, capabilities, functions, and vendor service are discussed, and a directory of vendors is included. (CDD)

Argues that online searching in terms of both recall and precision improves when search results are checked, and identifies many problems that a searcher should look out for. Numerous examples of printouts illustrate these problems. (JD)

Presents an annotated list of 17 references dealing with various topics related to telecommunications and online systems. (JN)

Created at the Library of the University of California, Berkeley, by a task force on machine readable data files (MRDFs), this policy provides guidance to materials selectors in acquiring MRDFs through purchase, gift, lease, network, or other cooperative arrangements. The guidelines offer a collection development framework and identify problems to…

This review of new developments and products in online services discusses trends in travel related services; full text databases; statistical source databases; an emphasis on regional and international business news; and user friendly systems. (Author/CLB)

This paper presents an overview of the major Canadian online systems, which account for approximately 5% of information vendors and databases worldwide. Also described is DATAPAC, Canada's national telecommunications network, and DATAPAC's X.75 interface with TELENET, TYMNET, UNINET, and France's TRANSPAC. The online systems described include: (1)…

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 resource guide was compiled as an aid to education libraries (i.e., libraries that support teacher training and education). It is intended as a tool for teachers, administrators, professors, students of education, and librarians. The focus of the listing, which covers the most important and useful electronic resources currently available in…

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS DOCUMENT: Today there are over 900 on-line data banks available for public access. Most microcomputers can use them through the aid of a modem and communication program. Major public information utilities that offer access to these on-line data bases are growing and expanding. The Source, a data base utility…

Online searching is now a recognized specialization in library schools, but there are certain problems involved with offering online courses. There is a large amount of material to be covered, especially in one course. Students must learn new concepts and make them work in a machine environment. It is difficult to offer suggestions for a fruitful…

A well-designed online database system allows users to ask a computer to find only information that is relevant to their needs. A variety of databases exist, each specializing in a particular topic or type of information. Fulltext systems provide complete copies of such documents as news articles, research reports, and software evaluations.…