Summarizes remarks of the presidents of DIALOG, Mead Data Central, and BRS on the expansion of several European databanks into the American market. Comments focus on the competitiveness of the marketplace, the provision of international information by American systems, the expectations and prospects of the European companies, and American plans.…

Identifies a conflict between the kind of reference service that many librarians of tax-supported academic and public libraries have accepted as workable within their institutions and the kind of reference service that has evolved for those who can pay for online bibliographic searches in these same libraries. (Author)

Examines use of online access to bibliographic files in library reference service, focusing on two systems: OCLC and Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN). The development and current status of each system, differences between systems, search examples, user expectations, and advantages of online access are noted. Twenty references are…

Describes an online microcomputer-based system called Reference Librarian Enhancement System (REFLES) which stores factual information. Examples of data in the system and uses of the service are presented, as well as considerations for the future. Twelve (12) references are included. (Author/BK)

Discusses the benefits to patrons and librarians of integrating online database searching with traditional reference services, and makes recommendations for maximizing those benefits. (Author/JD)

Discusses problems of increasing numbers of databases (standardization, vendor contracts, training, restricted access, duplicate citations), noting implications for change in librarian's role as supplier of decision making data (education, users groups, search aids, information brokers, collection evaluation, reference and source databases,…

Identifies the advantages and limitations of online search services offered by libraries, cautioning the searcher and user to consider and evaluate all options before performing online search. The librarian's responsibility to solve the user's information problem in a desirable way is discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Comments based on actual reference use of Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--formerly BALLOTS--in a library environment focus on RLIN files, interlibrary loan, search keys, and subject searches. This article updates a description of BALLOTS as it was developed by Stanford University to support cataloging and acquisitions (Online,…

The director of the Buros Institute of Mental Measurements describes the "Mental Measurements Yearbook,""Tests in Print," the institute's online database, its symposium, and symposium books. Suggestions to librarians for increasing effectiveness of service to users of tests are included. (Author/EM)

Discusses the 10 questions most frequently asked concerning the installation of public library online services. Equipment considerations (choice of equipment, maintenance arrangements, baud rate), choice of databases and vendors, budgets, fees, training, elimination of printed tools, and promotion of the service are covered. (EJS)

Describes the dual service philosophy at McGoogan Library, University of Nebraska Medical Center, which includes fee-based online search services and free use of online databases for reference purposes. The position of the American Library Association, viewpoints from the field, and record-keeping and accounting procedures are reviewed. Seven…

Identifies technological issues of nationwide networking, including computer processing, data storage and communication, software, data entry, and standards. Emphasized in a forecast of networking trends in the 1980s is the need for coordination of a central managing organization with the autonomous local libraries. (SW)

Examines the probability and impact of an increase in end-user searching of online databases on librarians and library education. The problems of end-user searching are discussed, new developments in online access are reviewed, and recommendations for the education of the end-user are made. Included are 25 references. (JL)

Describes the successful use of online database systems by the Library Services Division, Center for the Study of Youth Development at Boys Town for answering specific, limited reference questions; and identifies system use in acquisitions, interlibrary loan verification, name/address verification, and identification of persons, groups, or…

Advocates replacing the traditional library card catalog with a more effective system. Technological developments such as machine-readable catalogs, automated authority control, and computer-output-microform make possible integration of nonbook media, government documents, journal literature, and local information into the main catalog. (SW)