Describes Microlif (Microcomputer Library Interchange Format), a standard data interchange format for bibliographic information on microcomputers. Discussion includes reasons for Microlif development, differences from full MARC format, and development of the new USMARC (Microlif protocol). Members of the Microlif community are listed, and the…

Provides a list of companies that offer commercial library software and describes the systems and tools they offer. Integrated library systems, networking systems, bibliographic software, and other library applications are included. (LRW)

Provides an update to the list of companies that offer commercial library software and describes the systems and tools they offer. Integrated library systems, networking systems, bibliographic software, and other library applications are included. (LRW)

Describes the development of the GALAXY Integrated Library System by Gaylord Information Systems. Topics addressed include the library automation business; industry trends, both long-term and short-term; a history of Gaylord's automation ventures; Gaylord's vision of the future; and perspectives from two GALAXY users. (LRW)

Discussion of methodologies for libraries to use when selecting an integrated library system focuses on the benefits of using a Request for Proposal (RFP), based on experiences at the University of Rochester. A copy of the system vision statement which describes the purpose of the RFP is appended. (LRW)

Describes how librarians coped in temporary quarters in a warehouse and with a drastically reduced circulating and reference collection when Great Basin College's library closed temporarily due to renovation. Discusses how the experience led to innovations in the integration of electronic databases into the renovated library. (VWC)

This introduction to a new column on small automated library systems presents the author's credentials and discusses the topics to be considered, including automation needs of smaller libraries, microcomputer-based systems, network access, implications of automation for administration and staffing, and automation-related problems. (EA)

The first of two articles addresses the problems of automated bibliographic control of bound withs--i.e., books or pamphlets published separately and subsequently bound together--in a library collection, and explains a solution devised by Innovative Interfaces. The second article reports on beta testing of KeyNOTIS, a turnkey library automation…

New alternative models for selecting automated systems emphasize uniqueness of each institution, involve more staff, and do not rely on requests for proposals (RFPs). Vendor demonstrations are extremely important in the evaluation of system capabilities when RFPs are not used, and scripts prepared by institutions ensure that vendors focus on…

Questions whether IOLS (integrated online library systems) effectively serve all the needs of libraries and encourage the development of each module to its fullest potential. Suggests that the needs of acquisitions departments are often not met, due to emphasis on circulation modules and OPACs (online public access catalogs). (Author/LRW)

Provides a comprehensive list of all the major vendors offering the Windows NT operating system, the latest in integrated online library systems software. Describes features and capabilities; platforms; and libraries where it is installed. (AEF)

The creation of rules and procedures for cataloging archival collections was made difficult because of the nature of archives and manuscript collections and the challenge of describing them. Discusses definitions and principles; accessioning and arrangement; inventories, the core descriptive finding aid; integrated descriptive programs; and…

Discusses topics relating to the Virginia Tech Library System: the company (VTLS, Inc.); the software; data structure; cataloging, status, and authority control; circulation; serials control and acquisitions; the online catalog; management reporting; networking; and the operating environment. Sidebars discuss the Vanilla Network; LINNEA--a network…

Reports results of the 1994 Automated System Marketplace survey based on responses from 60 vendors. Highlights include changes in the library automation marketplace; estimated library systems revenues; minicomputer and microcomputer-based systems; marketplace trends; global markets and mergers; research needs; new purchase processes; and profiles…

Describes features of the Library Information System (LIS) at Carnegie Mellon University and discusses how LIS is utilized by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) library staff and patrons. Highlights include a history of the LIS, electronic mail applications, online request forms, and current awareness services. (six references) (LRW)