Discusses evolution of Integrated Library System (ILS) since its beginning at National Library of Medicine, highlighting events leading to ILS development; formative design stages, formation of Online Computer System; installation of ILS version 1.0 at Pentagon library; development of version 2.0, formation of Avatar Systems; OCLC's acquisition of…

Seven vendors express their views on the importance of standards to facilitate the linkage of in-house and external computer systems. The subjects addressed include integrated versus linked systems, national and international standards efforts, and the involvement of librarians in the development of standards. (EM)

This issue on current options in the area of machine-readable cataloging and retrospective conversion highlights generation and use of machine-readable bibliographic records, editing, standards, online and batch access, keying and coding, full-service cataloging and conversion, interlibrary loan, and authority control. Profiles of 22…

In-house library databases or "private files" (online catalog, library-created indexes, citations to journal literature) are discussed, focusing on computer software directories, periodicals, general directories, and online directories as sources for information on computer software. (EJS)

This review of research on subject searching in library catalogs includes a summary of research findings, reasons for search failures, free text versus controlled vocabulary searching, and studies of users' needs. Suggestions for future action to improve subject access in the online catalog are noted. A 52-item bibliography is included. (EJS)

Examines trends in costs of conventional library operation and costs of electronic devices which may pervade libraries of future. Library costs in 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, library automation, total library operating expenditures for university and college libraries, and rate of adoption of electronic techniques are covered. Sixty-three references…

Traces the development of circulation systems through the librarian's perception of circulation control and the technology of modern online systems. Librarians have switched from a broad service approach to a narrow record keeping approach and back again as technological innovation has expanded their viewpoints. Included are six references.…

The 1980s offer libraries numerous automated acquisitions alternatives, including turnkey systems from circulation system vendors and the acquisition subsystems of the bibliographic utilities. Integration of systems from several sources poses the principal problem. (Author/RAA)

Considers aspects of building, maintaining, and using United States MARC format and other related standards, discussing costs and benefits, MARC and the American National Standards Institute's Z39 standard, effects of MARC on content and processing, compatibility between and within standards, and MARC in practice. Nineteen sources are cited. (EJS)

An overview of existing technology, this paper identifies and describes word processing equipment currently available for automating library technical processes. It traces the development of word processors, describes components, examines present and future applications, and provides advice on system selection. An extensive bibliography is…

Describes the latest developments in automated circulation systems and the turnkey system in particular. Trends include greater functional integration, improved user interfaces, and shared facilities. The role of bibliographic utilities is briefly explored. (Author/RAA)

Describes archival concepts and theories and their evolution in recent times. Basic archival functions--appraisal, arrangement, description, reference, preservation, and publication--are introduced. Early applications of automation to archives (including SPINDEX, NARS-5, NARS-A-1, MARC AMC, presNET, CTRACK, PHOTO, and DIARY) and automation trends…

Reports on the use of microcomputers in comprehensive library circulation systems. Topics covered include system requirements (reliability, completeness); determining circulation system needs (saving money, improving service, modernization); limitations of microcomputers (capacity, kinds of data stored, number of stations or terminals); system…

This report on the microcomputer-to-mainframe link highlights advantages and weaknesses of each system when used independently; technical considerations for link (personal computer emulates a dumb terminal, data transfer, selective data access category, nongeneric links); how librarians can use the link; availability of software; and planning for…

Reviews authority control as represented in the literature from circa 1900 to the present. Catalog codes and handbooks are examined; efforts to develop authority files are summarized; and consideration is given to impact of automation on authority control. A list of recommended readings is included and 46 references are provided. (Author/EJS)