Discusses the information explosion as it relates to the emergence of the information handling capability explosion, or the use of computer technology, citing library network online databases as evidences of information control. (EJS)

Examines design functions of present file organizations in the context of available data storage devices and identifies current developmental trends. (Author/RAA)

Describes current online technology, including the physical and functional aspects of three types of networks: search service, customized service providing bibliographic files, and service center. (FM)

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)

By drawing an analogy to computer programming, it is apparent that end user training for online bibliographic search systems will increase, lead to vastly increased use of online search systems, increase the understanding of end users, and reduce the amount of time professionals spend on routine tasks. (CWM)

User perception of data importance and the economic feasibility of hardware and storage devices will determine the future direction of online systems. A retrieval system's functions are ultimately dictated by database design. Early online sytems were designed for bibliographic information limited to citations only using sequential files. When…

Examines two primary roles played by natural language processing in storage and retrieval of information and outlines organization of natural language interface for data retrieval (question-answering system) and approaches being taken to text analysis. Research issues in computational linguistics and interactive knowledge acquisition are…

Discussion of information needs of rural areas and impact of computer technology on information dissemination focuses on information sources and services--the public or tax-supported sector (federal, state, and local agencies); the private sector (mass media). Computer technology in agriculture based on interactive computer systems, videotex, and…

Discusses the applications of online systems and other computerized systems in public library information and referral (I&R) services. A number of specific examples are presented and computer equipment and software relevant to I&R services are listed in two tables. A 10-item reference list and an appendix of I&R projects are attached. (JL)

In exploring the impact of microcomputers and the future of the university in 1985 and beyond, a distinction should be made between computing literacy--the ability to use a computer--and computer literacy, which goes beyond successful computer use to include knowing how to program in various computer languages and understanding what goes on…

The 15 papers in this collection discuss various aspects of computer use in libraries and several other aspects of library service not directly related to computers. Following an introduction and a list of officers, the papers are: (1) "Criminal Justice and Related Databases" (Kate E. Adams); (2) "Software and Hard Thought:…

Reviews recent advances in microtechnology and describes the impact they will have on computer aided instruction and learning. It is suggested that distributed systems based on network technology will become widespread, and computer assisted guidance systems will be developed to assist new unskilled users. Eight references are given. (CHC)

Discusses forces at work within today's on-line data base environment which could lead to the emergence of a distributed information network; identifies several important modules in such a network, including an automated subject switching module; and reports research investigations, critical issues, and preliminary findings with regard to…

Predictions of the effect of technological change on society in the home, the workplace, and in public and academic libraries in the future are presented. Topics discussed include the problem of inaccurate data, access to information, videodisc technology, "telematics" (the combining of computer technology and telecommunications), cable…

Outlines the technological evolution and the use of computers and telecommunications in information transactions and data storage. (CWM)