Presents summaries of 12 papers presented at the 1990 Computers in Libraries Conference. Topics discussed include online searching; microcomputer-based serials management; microcomputer-based workstations; online public access catalogs (OPACs); multitype library networking; CD-ROM searches; locally mounted online databases; collection evaluation;…

Describes a project at the library of the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) at Johns Hopkins University that developed an expert system to conserve professional staff time and reduce processing costs by allowing gifts, or donations, to be processed by support staff. Decision-making factors are explained, and performance statistics are discussed.…

Three articles discuss the second online library system at the University of Hawaii at Manoa--the CARL (Colorado Alliance for Research Libraries) System. Topics addressed include an overview of the system; development of a Windows-based CARL cataloging workstation; and incorporating digitized images in the online public access catalog. (EA)

Describes the components of computer systems and library systems, and discusses several topics related to computer systems in the library environment: the systems approach and libraries; systems engineering and systems environment; natural and artificial systems; the importance of the systems approach; and the understanding of computer systems and…

Lists computer programs selected on basis of following criteria: (1) applicability or easy adaptability to academic or research library environment; (2) operative on three microcomputer brands found in academic and research libraries; (3) good or excellent reviews appearing in software magazines; (4) price ranging from $50-$350. Vendor addresses…

Discusses the early history and current proliferation of computer viruses that occur on Macintosh and DOS personal computers, mentions virus detection programs, and offers suggestions for how libraries can protect themselves and their users from damage by computer viruses. (LRW)

Explains procedures for installing a CD-ROM local area network (LAN) using Novell NetWare as the network operating system and SCSI Express to support networking CD-ROMs, based on experiences at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater library. Topics discussed include planning, equipment selection, workstation configuration, installation, and…

Stresses the importance of clearly establishing goals for and level of services to be offered by academic library microcomputer centers when determining staff requirements. Questions to be considered when developing goals and a profile of the majority of tasks involved in center operation provide some guidelines for the planning process. (EM)

Discusses the current and future status of printed books in light of rapidly progressing technology. Topics discussed include the digital electronic medium (DEM); electronic books and the electronic library; the decline of libraries and books; databases; reactive media, including television and video; interactive multimedia, including…

The first of three papers describes the role of Macintosh workstations in a library. The second paper explains why the Macintosh was selected for end-user searching in an academic library, and the third discusses advantages and disadvantages of desktop publishing for librarians. (8 references) (MES)

Discussion of the pivotal role of the library in computer integration at Illinois State University (ISU) includes (1) a profile of ISU; (2) an overview of computer planning and implementation at ISU; (3) the role of the library in enhancing computer literacy; (4) issues faced by the library; and (5) future projections. (2 references) (MES)

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…

Discusses optical character recognition (OCR) for use with MS-DOS microcomputers. Cost effectiveness is considered, three types of software approaches to character recognition are explained, hardware and operation requirements are described, possible library applications are discussed, future OCR developments are suggested, and a list of OCR…

Based on the experiences at Texas Tech University, this article discusses five issues that should be addressed when an academic library and a computer learning center share the same building: (1) organizational structure; (2) construction; (3) impact of the state economy; (4) security; and (5) advantages of the shared facility. (7 references) (MES)

Discusses the current status and potential for automated library reference services in the areas of community information systems, online catalogs, remote online reference services, and telephone reference services. Several models of the reference procedure which might be used in developing expert systems are examined. (19 references) (CLB)