Briefly reviews early work in documentation and text processing, and predictions that were made about the creative role of computers in information retrieval. An attempt is made to explain why these predictions were not fulfilled and conclusions are drawn regarding the limits of computer power in text retrieval applications. (Author/CLB)

Reports results of a 1987 survey of the British membership of Aslib on the use of information technology in libraries and information centers. Responses are analyzed in four areas: (1) hardware; (2) software applications and packages; (3) online searching; and (4) new technologies for communications, document delivery, and information storage. (2…

The first of two phases in this research project aimed at linking information technology (IT) with library information skills used the microcomputer as an information retrieval tool, and investigated ways of using curriculum-based keywords to help secondary school students define and maintain a clear sense of purpose when selecting, evaluating,…

The author uses the concept of a technology-science cycle to review early research in coordinate indexing and online searching and to predict the future directions of information technology. (CLB)