Presents an overview of automated library acquisitions with emphasis on vendor developed systems. The article provides definitions, a description of an ideal system, a selection procedure for optimal purchasing decisions, and predictions for the future. An evaluation sheet and checklist are included. (RAA)

Encourages establishment of priorities and allocation of funds to support the preservation of library materials. Improper storage and handling practices are threatening the continued existence of much recorded information. Techniques, programs, and trained personnel are needed to arrest deterioration of library materials. (RAA)

Discusses AACR2 rule changes that have the greatest impact on public service librarians. Topics discussed include sound recordings; computer files; materials for the visually handicapped; and access issues relating to pseudonyms, geographic names in the British Isles, and serial title changes. (three references) (LRW)

The retiring editor of Dewey Decimal Classification recounts the development of the system from the 16th through the 19th editions, i.e., 1956-1980. During this period, the system has undergone major changes to internationalize its character. Special provisions have been incorporated for branches of history, geography, language, literature, the…

Examination of factors of library technical processing priority systems (i.e., processing on basis other than randomization) highlights internal factors (priority by chronological sequence, personal choice, format, influence of organizational structure, acquisition type, patron, librarians' judgement); external factors (shared cataloging, Library…

Discusses authority work and authority control for personal names and corporate bodies in transitional archive catalogs. The importance of conformance with standards so that archival materials will collocate with other types of material in integrated catalogs is also discussed, together with enhanced authority work and techniques for archival…

Discussion of rush library processing (rapid provision of books that are urgently needed) highlights speed versus cost, previous studies, and a study conducted at Clemson University Library to determine rush book turnaround time. Seven guidelines applicable primarily to academic libraries are suggested as aids to improve rush processing. (9…

Examination of the traditional library technical services functions and how they may change with the advent of widespread computer-based electronic publishing emphasizes ways in which technical services will have to adapt in electronic publishing environment. Implications of electronic publishing for library management and budgeting are explored.…

Many problems in developing biomedical library services for the emerging nations of Southeast Asia remain amenable only to legislation; however, IFLA seems particularly well situated to assist in these tasks. Of the numerous political and technical problems to be overcome, first and foremost are the difficulties involved in the simple transmission…

This paper analyzes proposals for augmenting library bibliographic records for improved subject searching in online catalogs by providing access to parts of books. Arguments for and against adding book content indexing, possible fields for enrichment, and feasibility of 11 alternatives for providing such information are presented. Twenty-two…

Discussion of the cataloging of visual materials focuses on special considerations for photographs. Functions of the catalog record are considered, cataloging tools for visual materials are described, examples of MARC records for photographs from the Library of Congress are given, and sample subject entries are presented. (five references) (LRW)

Discusses differences in archival and bibliographic description of maps and suggests options for developing standards in the control of cartographic archives. The automation of archival access using the MARC format for Archival and Manuscripts Control (AMC) is described, and examples of bibliographic records for maps are given. (11 references)…

This discussion of personal experiences and training during a cataloger's first year begins by discussing four primary objectives in training for the cataloging of original monographs: (1) searching for suitable cataloging records using the online databases; (2) using AACR2 (Anglo American Cataloging Rules 2) standards in cataloging a monograph;…

Description of considerations special libraries must address before building databases is based on practical experiences of Comstow Information Services. Developing standards for all types of materials (journal articles, internal reports, competitors' literature, government documents, conference proceedings, analytics, books), retrospective…

Discusses why innovation is important for technical services and lists requirements: the ability to envision the future, the use of intuitive thinking and creativity, and well-managed implementation. Examines systems for verification and delivery of bibliographic records (OCLCs Passport for Windows and PromptCat), and outsourcing and…