Presents an overview of the impact of fiber optics on telecommunications and its application to information processing and library services, including information retrieval, news services, remote transmission of library services, and library networking. (RAA)

Introduces this issue, which contains papers from the 1991 Data Compression Conference, and defines data compression. The two primary functions of data compression are described, i.e., storage and communications; types of data using compression technology are discussed; compression methods are explained; and current areas of research are…

Synthesizes issues covered at a conference on microelectronics: production, productivity, and employment; social implications; market mechanisms v government intervention; the role of national governments; data protection laws; and cultural pollution. (SW)

With the availability of new technologies and changes in information processing, it is imperative that Extension's leaders look ahead and identify the role Extension will play in inventing its future. (JOW)

Speculates on unanticipated effects brought about by the application of online sytems and databases to library services. Concern is voiced about the development of a technological library elite, the growth of research dependency, the limiting of the availability of books and journals, and the narrowing of serendipity in research. (RAA)

The original goal of an information center was to create an environment wherein end users could generate their own analyses and management reports from institutional data without the direct aid of information systems staff. It is suggested, however, that real productivity gains are not being achieved. (MLW)

Describes new microcomputer software and hardware which simplify data communications between computer systems. "Dumb" terminal software, programs which enhance a computer's data communications flexibility by means of character translation and data buffering, stand-alone versus integrated systems, and "smart" modems are…

Discusses underlying assumptions and prerequisites for information development in Arab countries. Administrative and environmental impediments which hinder the optimum utilization of available resources and suggestions for improvements are outlined. A brief bibliography is provided. (Author/RAA)

Considers the implications of possible policy initiatives in the United States in light of Swedish experience in dealing with the privacy of computerized records. (CWM)

The way documentation procedures are organized in society has a decisive influence on the democratization and dissemination of power. The impact of documentation and information processing systems, data banks, and telecommunications networks on third world development and democratization trends is discussed. (AM)

Summarizes what has been suggested so far with regard to the social, political, and economic consequences of transborder data flows involved in the linking of computerized information processing networks. (FM)

Discusses women's use of computers and considers how the principles of feminism affect computerization. Highlights include the computerization process; gender differences in learning; models for feminist use of computers, including information processing and telecommunications; and a resource list of women's organizations that use computers.…

Describes three stages of the automation of information processing systems by combining the concept of the exponential growth of operational capabilities with three characteristics: computational capability, ability to store data, and ability to communicate data. The growth of fiberoptic technology is described as beginning the third stage. (EM)

Discusses the need to identify values and deal with the conflicts among these values as society expands the use of communication technology. Suggests a list of organizing principles for guidance during this period. (JMF)

Discussion of the diffusion of interactive communications innovations focuses on the integration of telecomputing tools into precollege curricula. Topics include the telecomputing teacher as instructional designer; a models approach to instructional design; and telecomputing activity structures, including interpersonal exchanges, information…