An account is given of the design and compilation of a freely-available database, updated on a monthly schedule, listing journals, books, conference proceedings and online publications concerned with any and every aspect of low vision. Specific topic areas can be located by means of keywords and through other bibliographical details such as the…

BITNET is a computer network designed to facilitate communications among universities by lowering the threshold of effort normally associated with other means of exchange. Discusses purpose, characteristics, uses, and services of the network. Also discusses concerns related to the network, such as security, resource utilization, unwanted…

Computing began at Rice University with the first computer project on campus about 1958. In 1960 a computer center was formed. Today's Institute for Computer Services and Applications serves Rice administration, departments, faculty, and students by writing systems, maintaining files, entering data, retrieving information, etc. (MLW)

Discusses sources of scholarly information including libraries (focusing on shared cataloging and information retrieval systems), nonbook materials, data archives, and commercial databases. Also discusses computing information and integration, the latter considering quality control, terminals, communications, user interfaces, and long-term…

Discusses technological developments causing changes in personal information systems: increase in commercial support services; proliferation of microcomputers; capability to download from secondary services into private files; and developing desire to utilize functions such as electronic mail and automated office functions. Appendices list 21…

The OnTyme electronic mail service made available to library and information community by CLASS (a cooperative library services agency) is discussed as example of computer-based message system. Use of system by Dynamic Services to support internal and external communications needs and receive orders is highlighted. Examples of online sessions are…

Discusses interdependence of computers and microelectronics, importance of programing, offices of the future, communications for the 1980s, emerging information systems, and the inexpensive, fast, and reliable small devices such as memory chips. (JN)

More than 40 leading computer and telephony companies have united to lead the charge toward open standards and universal interoperability for Internet telephony products. The voice of IP Forum (VoIP) is working to define technical guidelines for two-party, real-time communications over IP networks, including provisions for compatibility with…

Relates experiences in developing and promoting services interoperable with the Global Information Locator Service (GILS) standard. Describes sample implementations and touches on the strategic choices made in public policy, standards, and technology. Offers 10 recommendations for successful implementation of an Information Locator Service. (AEF)

The history, functions, and organization of the Open University International Documentation Centre on Distance Learning are described. It contains information on distance teaching projects and institutions in over 80 countries, samples of course materials, theoretical information on distance education, and documentation on education in all…

Describes in detail the system by which the American Institute of Physics produces primary journals, a database of secondary information, and secondary information products through multiple use of originally input material in order to realize savings. Uses for the data, work flow, and file structure and conversion are highlighted. (EJS)

Focuses on scholarly communication in an academic context, including computer applications in publishing, cataloging, and indexing. Includes a table highlighting computerization of bibliographic processes since 1961 and underlying principles to provide a cohesive base for the development of information services. (JN)

Although information systems developers are encouraged to adopt a client/server orientation, systems architectures and tools are still evolving. Successful applications must be built on standards and a well-defined system architecture, and data administration issues must be addressed. Key management concerns for colleges and universities are…

Increasingly, college textbooks written to the specifications of individual professors are being produced on demand by custom publishers, often prepared very quickly to contain up-to-date information. Students prefer them to photocopied packets of readings. The trend is a reaction to the emergence of information-on-demand computer networks. (MSE)

Defines the Year 2000 Problem, and discusses when and where it occurs, its scale and its solutions. Examines awareness, attitudes and responses toward the problem in general, and then more specifically among information professionals. (Author/AEF)