Foresight and planning in adopting any automated system helps to keep options open for future changes due to changing needs. The promise of future technology should not keep libraries from deciding to use the technology of today. (Author/MBR)

Examines the potential benefits and problems for libraries using a fully automated short record circulation system, one that consists of a number designating the item, enough bibliographic information to identify it, information on its location, and information on the borrower. (FM)

A founder trustee of OCLC recounts the steps toward automation of library catalogs encountered during his career, from the use of punched cards in a circulation system to the implementation of online union catalogs. (CLB)

Identifies the ability and potential for networking among libraries using the packaged "circulation systems" of various vendors. Cooperation and involvement of system vendors, librarians, bibliographic networks, and service bureaus are needed to ensure maximum benefit from these systems. (CWM)

Provides survey questions designed to be used to gather information required in library decision-making process for selection of automated circulation system. User library profile, system profile, hardware and software profiles, interactive workload, service, staff support requirements, educational support, bibliographic/item database, patron…

Discusses computers in terms of what they are, costs and availability of hardware and software, the identification of processes the computer is to perform, and factors involved in the acquisition and installation of a hypothetical automated circulation system. Five references are listed. (CHC)

Examines the development of the microcomputer and focuses on its potential for library automation. The characteristics of microcomputers and minicomputers are contrasted and a selected annotated bibliography includes a list of specialty magazines on microcomputers. (RAA)

Explores nature and magnitude of extensions needed in order to use a library circulation control system as an online catalog, noting Margaret Mann's eight functions of a library catalog, authority control, cross references, correlating subjects, structure revision, adding access, terminal needs, and system reliability. Nine references are cited.…

Identifies the four basic functions of library automation as circulation systems, online catalogs, acquisitions, and serial check-in, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of integrated library systems versus linked systems in terms of these functions. (3 notes with references) (CLB)

This set of summaries of problems and issues pertaining to the selection and implementation of automated integrated library information systems (AILS) deals with such topics as the nature of integrated library systems, the rationale for installing such systems, automated systems operations, available technology, and options for obtaining the…

Reports on the use of microcomputers in comprehensive library circulation systems. Topics covered include system requirements (reliability, completeness); determining circulation system needs (saving money, improving service, modernization); limitations of microcomputers (capacity, kinds of data stored, number of stations or terminals); system…

Cites the importance of having a state law, knowing what it says, and having a library policy statement regarding the confidentiality of patron records. Discussion covers writing and implementing a policy, the role of automation, existing laws, library records defined, exceptions to confidentiality, and legal liability. Thirty-seven references are…

This report for an automated circulation control system to replace the currently used automated off-line batch system discusses the general requirements for the requested system, the equipment needed, the planned uses and design of the proposed system, its utilization, its expected benefits, its estimated costs, the alternatives considered, and…

The first of two articles discusses the similarities and differences between academic libraries and campus computing centers, and identifies the level of service libraries want from computing centers. The second addresses the advantages of automating library circulation systems, and the need to integrate those systems with other library and campus…

Examines issues regarding the privacy of information contained in patron databases that have resulted from online circulation systems. Topics discussed include library policies to protect information in patron records; ensuring compliance with policies; limiting the data collected; security authorizations; and creating and modifying patron…