Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

Outlines the process involved in selecting or developing software for building a machine-readable database and the special librarian's role in that process. The following steps are identified: (1) needs assessment; (2) project cost and justification; (3) software selection; (4) implementation; and (5) startup and maintenance. Twelve references are…

Discussion of care and planning given to the implementation of an automated library system highlights informing the staff in the early stages, project management, involvement of the entire staff, the control log, time and money, where and when to go online, and implementation consultants. (EJS)

Cutbacks in funding and personnel required the Mankato State College Library to gain more effective control over its serials collection. The task was to integrate the various data, some unrecorded, on standing orders and serials holdings and to produce for the library directors specialized lists of many types: all titles ordered from a specific…

This overview of local library online systems that integrate several functions covers functional integration, benefits of integrated systems, turnkey systems, minicomputer and microcomputer-based systems, interfacing automated systems, types of interfaces, linking homogenous and heterogeneous systems, role of vendors, library applications, linking…

This manual provides guidance in the use of the Integrated Library System (ILS), a library minicomputer system in which all automated library functions are processed against a single database. It is oriented toward ILS users with no ADP training or experience. Written in MUMPS, a higher-level language, the system includes the following…

The first of two articles on the acquisition and implementation of a large laserdisk service at Texas A&M University covers funding, donor recognition, selection and ordering of databases, planning and integrating the service with other information services, and future funding and plans. (5 references) (MES)

Discusses number and type of microcomputer software programs useful to libraries and types of hardware on which they run, as identified by Nolan Information Management Services. Highlights include general application programs, applications designed to support library technical processes, producers of library software, and choosing among options.…

Creating a catalog for the synagogue or church library is a vital ministry, one that leads workers and parishioners to available resources for information and inspiration. Pointing out that cataloging is not too difficult or complicated for untrained professionals and volunteer librarians, this guide sets forth basic procedures for: (1) aiming…

Discusses the Request for Proposal (RFP) process (formal document asking vendors to submit proposal for system meeting specific needs of library) employed by Canadian libraries as major step in selection of online system. System selection, evaluation, and implementation, Request for Information, estimating costs, and contract negotiation are…

Focusing on the use of microcomputers as "smart terminals" for accessing time-sharing systems for libraries, this document discusses the communications software needed to allow the microcomputer to appear as a terminal to the remote host. The functions which communications software programs are designed to perform are defined and…

The State and Urban Publications Collection at Mankato State College contains materials from state and local agencies on urban planning. By 1971, when the collection had grown to the point that its haphazard organization was decreasing its usefulness as a resource tool, the library and the Urban Studies Institute formulated an information…

This first in a series of six articles introducing microcomputer applications in smaller libraries discusses microcomputer components (hardware, operating systems, applications software); microcomputer history; current hardware; library applications; performance criteria; factors influencing performance; integrated systems; information retrieval;…

Creating a catalog for the synagogue or church library is described as a vital ministry, one that leads workers and parishioners to available resources for information and inspiration. Arguing that cataloging is not too difficult or complicated for untrained professionals and volunteer librarians, this guide sets forth basic procedures for: (1)…

The increased demand for library materials resulting from improved bibliographic access due to automation, and auditors' demands for more accurate accounting of library assets/holdings, have made it increasingly important that the discrepancy between the catalog and the materials in the stacks be reduced. This paper identifies many of the benefits…