Suggests that catalogs of the future, as facilitated by computer technology, should take on multiple formats. Three levels of varying form and size are envisioned for the needs and uses of the librarian, the general user, and the individual user. (Author/RAA)

Suggests that a less rigid traditional approach towards automating acquisitions functions might be more cost effective. Thorough investigation of available alternatives should precede a decision to adopt or maintain a local system. (Author/RAA)

Representatives of six vendors of online library systems address key issues related to system performance: designing, configuring and sizing systems; establishing performance criteria; using benchmark and acceptance tests; the risks of miscalculations; vendor, consultant, and library roles; and related topics. (Author/EM)

Five library consultants address issues that affect online system performance: options in system design that relate to diverse library requirements; criteria that most affect performance; benchmark tests and sizing criteria; minimalizing the risks of miscalculation; and the roles and responsibilities of vendors, libraries, and consultants.…

A review of library technological development and card catalog innovations of the past century and a half precedes a discussion of online public access catalog development. Design requirements and purpose of the online catalog, access techniques and provisions, costs, and future integration are highlighted. Twenty-two references are listed. (EJS)

Reviews the questions and issues which must be addressed as libraries enter an age in which the development of online catalogs for library users is becoming more feasible. Viability of online catalogs, current activities in catalog development, variables involved in catalog design, and the potential of online systems are discussed. (JL)

Discusses the impact new technologies (particularly those of computers and telecommunications) and networks (bibliographic utilities, distributed networks, local area networks) will have on academic library buildings in terms of collection space and access, staff space and organization, user needs, changing functions and functional relationships,…

This case study describes the planning, funding, and implementation of a complete data-wiring renovation at the University of California, Santa Cruz library. Highlights include design principles; project schedule; benefits for staff's electronic mail and network use and for upgraded public terminals; and the importance of planning and…

This report presents eight papers prepared for a workshop held in June 1980, which was planned to exchange ideas and experiences about, and arrive at a better understanding of, the technological issues that have an impact on videotex systems and their use. Papers emphasize alternative architectures for present and future videotex systems; database…