As a concept, the next-generation catalog (NGC) is not new to librarians, who have been wishing for better OPAC interfaces for their integrated library systems (ILSs). The NGC has been the focus of discussion for more than 5 years now, from the 2006 report of the implementation of Endeca at North Carolina State University, to Marshall Breeding's…

Describes research networks available in Canada and planning for a high-speed network called CANARIE (Canadian Network for the Advancement of Research, Industry, and Education). Potential library applications of research networks are discussed, including information retrieval, interlibrary loan, document delivery, shared cataloging, and…

Papers on library and information networks which were presented at the 1982 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference include: (1) "Introduction to the Open and Closed Networking Concepts" by R. M. Bennett (Canada), which differentiates between space-biased and time-biased communications media, relates these…

Conducted to review the present status of computerized bibliographic centers in Canada and to report on the most effective means of promoting computerized library network development in that country, this study summary of the findings of seven substudies (1) describes the salient features of 20 Canadian and United States centers; (2) reviews major…

This article introduces the types of systems operating in the individual provinces and explains their purposes. Also covered are automated cataloging through library networks, and the beneficial and detrimental aspects of cooperative cataloging support systems. The University of Guelph system of automated cataloging, circulation, and acquisition…

This paper provides an update on the status of library systems development in Canada and describes the new initiatives which the National Library is undertaking cooperatively with other institutions to facilitate the development of a nationwide decentralized bibliographic communication network. In order to place current network initiatives and the…

Discusses the interlibrary loan (ILL) protocol, a standard based on the principles of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model. Benefits derived from protocol use are described, the status of the protocol as an international standard is reviewed, and steps taken by the National Library of Canada to facilitate migration to an ILL…

Describes TRESNET, a fully automated resource sharing network that provides an interlibrary loan and film booking system for the public libraries of seven counties and three municipalities in Ontario. The discussion covers the implementation and operation of the network and benefits being derived from it. (Author/CLB)

Reports on a postconference workshop on virtual libraries that was presented at the third annual Computers in Libraries Canada Conference. Highlights include networks; technological change; administrative issues, including organizational structure, staff training, strategic planning, and financial resources; a case study of the University of…

Based on a directive from the National Advisory Board of Canada, this paper provides a set of definitions and guidelines which Canadian libraries may choose to use in negotiating their contracts with database suppliers, vendors, and other information and bibliographic services. The report is intended to: (1) provide a basis for understanding and…

Describes Z39.50, a standard prepared by the National Information Standards Organization (NISO) for information retrieval that allows two computer systems connected to a network to exchange messages for the purpose of searching databases and receiving records. Canada's involvement is discussed, and possible library applications are described. (LRW)

Library automation in Canada is complicated by the large size, dispersed population, and cultural diversity of the country. The National Library of Canada is actively planning a Canadian library network based on national bibliographic services for which the library is now developing automated systems. Canadian libraries are involved in the…

The recommendations of this study are: (1) The western provinces of Canada should move toward making available to the university libraries of the region, the prospective benefits of a magasystem organization during the next ten years. (2) There is no present need or justification for mounting an immediate crash program to create the computer-based…

In Ontario, a library network is emerging, made possible by a group of technically innovative specialists at the University of Toronto, and exploited by others in expectation of the common good of their patrons. (Author)

Describes history, operating procedures, and current activities of group of users of the University of Toronto Library Automation System (UTLAS) who cooperated with each other, the bibliographic utility, and the National Library of Canada to produce an automated authority control system, termed Shared Authority File (SHARAF). Five references are…