Describes a project at the University of Guelph (Ontario) that combined both bibliographical and archival references in one large machine readable database to facilitate local history research. The description covers research tool creation, planning activities, system design, the database management system used, material selection, record…

Describes a microcomputer-assisted method of using the commercial dBase III software package for the management of a personal bibliographic storage and retrieval system. This system provides users with a systematic way of keeping, for rapid retrieval, references to papers or documents previously read. (Author/CLB)

This interview with Bertrum MacDonald discusses the decisions that determined the character of a national bibliography on science and technology in Canadian history. Topics discussed include the scope of the project; classification and indexing decisions; the database management system used; unexpected problems; and predicted usage of the…

This in-depth look at database management systems (DBMS) for microcomputers covers data entry, information retrieval, security, DBMS software and design, and downloading of literature search results. The advantages of in-house systems versus online search vendors are discussed, and specifications of three software packages and 14 sources are…

Discusses compilation by the National Library of Canada of comprehensive and official national retrospective bibliography to provide a record of the published Canadian heritage. Scope (inclusion, exclusions, date, Canadiana--works published in Canada, by Canadians, or about Canada), bibliographic standards, publication, impact, and future plans…

Describes three current two-way public information systems representing the major technologies which are being proposed as international standards: Prestel (United Kingdom), Teletel (France), and Telidon (Canada). Information retrieval structures are compared, and difficulties for both the information provider and the information user are…

Trends in online searching are discussed in terms of how end users continue to change role of the librarian and information specialist. Identification and description of end users, user-friendly information retrieval systems, front-end software packages, and current and potential developments in end user searching are covered. Ten readings are…

The document organization skills of librarians can be used to provide information management for computerized databases within corporations. Librarians should be exploring these career opportunities. (CLB)

Discusses use of microcomputer hardware and software, telecommunications methods, and advanced library methods to create a specialized information center's database of literature relating to farm machinery and food processing. Systems and services (electronic messaging, serials control, database creation, cataloging, collections, circulation,…

The increase in end-user searching, the advantages and limitations of front ends, and the role of the librarian in end-user searching are discussed. It is argued that librarians need to recognize that front ends can be of benefit to themselves and patrons, and to assume the role of advisors and educators for end-users. (37 references) (CLB)

Discusses environmental science and environmental education in Canada and describes sources of environmental information currently available. Highlights include environmental databases; environmental information online, including indexing and abstracting services as well as full-text coverage; and the growing amount of environmental information on…

Describes experiences of the Cranbrook Public Library (British Columbia) in implementation of an automated circulation system. Background of the library and need for the system, stages of development, use of community volunteers, retrospective conversion, functions of the menu-driven system, benefits from the system, software, and system costs are…

This overview of PRECIS indexing system use by the National Film Board of Canada covers reasons for its choice, challenge involved in subject analysis and indexing of audiovisual documents, the methodology and software used to process PRECIS records, the resulting catalog subject indexes, and user reaction. Twenty-one references are cited. (EJS)

Discusses reasons for the development of an online catalog using computer output microfiche (COM) supplements to the card catalog in a university library, and outlines some of the principles used in designing the online system. Three references are cited. (CHC)

Discusses CD-ROM with an emphasis on aspects that librarians need to know. The topics covered include the technology; installations and cost; advantages and disadvantages for libraries; products of interest to librarians; and selection issues. Other optical storage media are described and sources for further information are provided. (37…