Four papers on geography and map libraries were presented at the 1986 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference. "Generation and Utilization of Maps and Atlases in Japan," by Takashi Morita of Japan, presents an overview of the making and uses of maps and atlases in Japan and concludes that a comprehensive…

A survey of 20 British electronic information vendors found that 95% considered marketing important and suggested that it is likely to become more intensive and aggressive as competition increases in the information industry. Analyzed advertisements from professional journals and direct mail literature for readability, structure, and information…

Reports results of a United Kingdom-based mail survey of database users, CD-ROM producers, and hosts to assess trends and views concerning documentation in machine-readable form. Cost, convenience, and ease of use of print manuals are cited as reasons for the reluctance to switch to machine-readable documentation. Sample surveys are included.…

Provides an overview of CD-ROM networks. Highlights include network technology, including local area networks; an example of an installation at the South Bank Polytechnic (United Kingdom) library; interface issues, including standardization; possible future developments; licensing arrangements; and acquiring data in formats other than CD-ROM.…

Evaluates the potential of optical data disks as an online training tool based on experiences with information and library studies students and end users. The discussion weighs potential benefits and drawbacks of this type of training, including user reactions, the effect of online skills development, and cost effectiveness. (nine references) (CLB)

Discusses information retrieval and the future of databases in education, examines problem-solving strategies, and describes a study of undergraduate students that compared the use of a traditional textbook with the use of the electronic version on CD-ROM. Performance on tests and strategies used to answer questions are analyzed. (20 references)…

Highlights problems facing academic and research libraries in Ghana in providing scientific and technical information. Challenges include poor collections and inadequate funding. Topics include library cooperation, training in interlibrary lending and document delivery in the United Kingdom and in Denmark, and the need for CD-ROM databases and…

Discussion of the relationship between users, librarians, and vendors as it has been influenced by electronic databases and communications networks highlights experiences at Aston University (United Kingdom). Topics addressed include mediated searching; direct user access to databases; impacts on staff; user demand; costs; CD-ROM networks;…