This study conducted a systematic sample of every 70th reference transaction from over a three-year period and analyzed 1,852 reference transactions asked at an academic library system's fifteen face-to-face (f2f) service points as well as via telephone, e-mail, and chat. Findings indicate two-thirds of the total questions asked were…

Presents five brief papers that touch on the role of the computer center, sources of conflict, and basic incompatibilities in the relationship with the library. Also discussed are developmental operating difficulties, negotiation of continuing relationships, and the need for tolerance and mutual respect. (Author/RAA)

A general description of microcomputer-based spreadsheet software capabilities and their usefulness in library management analysis and planning are presented. Five specific spreadsheet models which apply to retrospective conversion cost and scheduling, COM and book catalog costs, and acquistions processing costs are discussed and displayed in…

Suggests practical steps the uninitiated librarian can take to become familiar with automation opportunities and discusses issues that should be considered in choosing an automation system for the small library. Getting acquainted with computer world, evaluating library environment, and considering options are covered. Eight references are cited.…

Discussion of the use of microcomputers in a cooperative public library system notes library management applications in areas of clerical work, word processing, book ordering, inventories, special collection catalogs, mailing lists, and a union list of serials. (EJS)

Addresses how libraries can prepare for Y2K problems. Discusses technology that might be affected and equipment that should be examined, difficulty of fixing noncompliant hardware and software, identifying problem areas and developing solutions, and dealing with vendors. Includes a checklist of necessary preparations. (AEF)

Discussion of the scheduling procedures of librarians' hours at the reference desk at the Rutherford Humanities and Social Sciences Library, University of Alberta, highlights services provided, the preference table system, and manual scheduling versus computer scheduling. (EJS)

Describes the use of electronic spreadsheet software for library decision support systems using personal computers. Discussion covers templates, formulas for allocating the materials budget, LOTUS 1-2-3 and budget allocations, choosing a formula, the spreadsheet itself, graphing capabilities, and advantages and disadvantages of templates. Six…

Based on interviews with OCLC staff, network directors, and librarians in member libraries, and related literature review, it is recommended that OCLC take steps to improve statistics it currently makes available and to consider leadership role in helping libraries use microcomputer technology to provide statistics for library management. (27…

Examines the characteristics of management information systems and their impact on decisions of senior library managers. The organizational feasibility of such systems is discussed in terms of four key components--economic, technical, structural, psychological--that are related to libraries in general and senior management decisions in particular.…

Identifies the lack of an effective comprehensive management information system (MIS) as one major impediment to effective library administration and outlines a proposal for the development of a system based on a total systems approach, which would be made available to subscriber libraries through a network system. Twenty-three references are…

The computerized data control system used at the Furstenberg Student Study Center at the University of Michigan Medical School is described. (MK)

The consequences for the library of computerization at the University of Bradford (England) are examined. Options for the future development of library services are considered, with attention given to the lessons learned from and issues raised by the implementation of a new library system incorporating advances in information technology.…

Examines criteria for software selection and the use of software packages (programs, routines, documentation) in school library management. General criteria, specific criteria for selecting library management programs (for tasks such as circulation, cataloging, recordkeeping), specific criteria for selecting educational programs, and reviewing…

Focusing on management decisions in academic libraries, this article compares management information systems (MIS) with decision support systems (DSS) and discusses the decision-making process, information needs of library managers, sources of data, reasons for choosing microcomputer, preprogrammed application software, prototyping a system, and…