Examines the dilemmas of participation in resource sharing library networks and proposes solutions based on shifting inducements toward contribution by remunerating the contributing library for the unit cost of original cataloging. A "contribution pricing" model recently announced by OCLC is also evaluated as a possible solution. (21…

Describes the background of the Linked Systems Project, which is designed to link existing bibliographic utilities into a national system of machine-readable bibliographic data and discusses directions being taken by the library community and why the OSI architecture was selected as the system protocol. (CLB)

Examines the current state of cooperative reference services through a review of the literature and interviews with librarians involved in cooperative services. Topics discussed include the need for cooperative reference services; structure, staffing, and funding; the use of communications technology; and factors to consider in planning…

Assesses the changes in interlibrary loan (ILL) practices, and points the way to an ideal future. Discusses patron-initiated document request systems; library-mediated ordering systems; document delivery suppliers; accessing electronic resources; ILL management software; paying ILL invoices; new electronic delivery options; and results of a…

As the purchase of virtual resources accelerates, particularly through consortial agreements, the autonomy of the local library will fade and the roles of librarians will change drastically. This rapid transformation is illustrated by a discussion of OhioLINK and its positive and negative effects on one member library. (Contains 21 references.)…

This document presents the evaluation report for Utah's Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) program for 1998-2002. Part I, "Executive Summary," describes the evaluation study process and summarizes recommendations related to goals in the following areas: (1) basic library technology; (2) enhanced library technology; (3) PIONEER:…

Suggests that the traditional concept of library resource sharing achieved through interlibrary loan cannot be justified and proposes expanding resource sharing to all library functions with information resources represented in machine-readable form accessible via data communication networks. The changes that would occur in the publishing process…

This plan sets forth approaches for state-level assistance for Oklahoma libraries to exchange information and to share or acquire machine-readable information from public and private sources through telecommunications, as well as for access to these libraries for existing and future state informational databases. Objectives and requirements are…

Addresses the inadequacies of traditional methods of library financing and proposes a strategy to be implemented in an environment supported by automation and networks. Publisher pricing of data rather than publications, options for charging library users with debit cards, and the role of regional library networks are discussed. (EAM)

Describes the rationale and structure of a distributed learning course on African regional geography at three Northern Virginia universities. Outlines the creation and holdings of a shared virtual library of course resources. Notes problems with integrating Web material into the curriculum, ensuring a high degree of interactivity, and site…

In 1982 the New Hampshire Automation Task Force made recommendations for an online statewide union catalog, which first came into use in 1984. In 1991 a subcommittee of the Automation Planning and Review Committee of the New Hampshire State Library presented a report on elements that should be addressed in a long range plan. This strategic plan is…

This document provides a detailed design for the data portion of the Mississippi Library Commission (MLC) public library network. The data network is based on Frame Relay technology, and would provide more functionality at a higher speed than a previously considered dial-in network could. The document is divided into 16 sections: (1) Introduction;…

Issues concerning the confidentiality of library-patron records in the age of electronics are explored. Confidentiality of patron records is a relatively new concept for libraries and was first introduced in the 1938 Code of Ethics of the American Library Association (ALA). Librarians have worked on a state-by-state basis to protect library…