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)

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.…

Legal questions, raised by recent developments in computerized networks and relating to censorship, liability, responsibility and other topics, were explored by means of a questionnaire sent to a selected group of librarians, network personnel, and others. Designed to collect information about existing laws and current problems, the questionnaire…

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…

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…

This five-article section discusses changes in the management of the school library resulting from use of the computer. Topics covered include data management programs (record keeping, word processing, and bibliographies); practical applications of a database; evaluation of "Circulation Plus" software; ergonomics and computers; and…

Examines how school libraries are using the microcomputer as educational media (computer-assisted instruction, educational games) and library management tools (database management systems and word processing). Four innovative programs in Colorado, Minnesota, Illinois, and Oregon are profiled. Additional resources on microcomputer applications and…

Briefly outlines the impact of computerization upon library services and administration, discusses the evolution of library education and the new skills that will be needed by the electronic librarian, examines the nature of libraries as organizations, and presents recommendations for the development of the library curriculum. (JL)

Discusses factors that should be considered before purchasing a computer, given the objectives of computer literacy; considering programing in Pascal or Logo, computer-assisted instruction, teaching practical applications, art and music, special education, telecommunications, administration, and library management. A chart showing prices and…

In academic libraries, neither technical services, public services, nor administration has escaped the impact of online information systems. Online catalogs, network systems, interlibrary lending, database searches, circulation control, automated technical processes, and an increasing number of non-book materials are part of a technological…