Though many of the functions of libraries are analogous to functions performed in the business world, public libraries have been disadvantaged by their reluctance to adopt computer technology. Though costs have previously been prohibitive and lack of uniformity in library processes has made the use of the new technology awkward, recently-developed…

Discusses evolution of Integrated Library System (ILS) since its beginning at National Library of Medicine, highlighting events leading to ILS development; formative design stages, formation of Online Computer System; installation of ILS version 1.0 at Pentagon library; development of version 2.0, formation of Avatar Systems; OCLC's acquisition of…

Discusses networking, other forms of interlibrary cooperation, and the need for library managers to be aware of their role in these cooperative ventures. (CHC)

Library automation in Canada is complicated by the large size, dispersed population, and cultural diversity of the country. The National Library of Canada is actively planning a Canadian library network based on national bibliographic services for which the library is now developing automated systems. Canadian libraries are involved in the…

The national bibliographic services currently provided by the Library of Congress (LC) include the Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) service, LC's Automated Process Information File System, and the Library of Congress Subject Headings. Cooperative projects involving LC include COMARC (Cooperative MARC), a national bibliographic data base for…

This paper describes a decision making framework for library networking which can be used by individual libraries, groups of cooperating libraries, or centralized services to evaluate current operations and define alternative approaches to automation and networking. It is noted that networking has not yet achieved its full potential because of a…

When assessing the possible impact of library technical processes on library space utilization in the future, it should be taken into account that the role of libraries as book and document depositories is being replaced by the emerging role of information delivery systems. Miniaturization and new technology may decrease space needs, but in most…

Major trends in library technology and technology in general, as indicated by information gathered through internal development work at the Dallas Public Library, professional readings, and interviews with experts, are discussed. Trends covered are: (1) internal library services focusing on a total systems approach to library automation; (2)…

Four intertwined issues in networking--local systems, linking, linking standards, and database ownership--need to be dealt with by bibliographic utilities and librarians, as their members, in the very near future. The resolution of these major issues will significantly affect the future direction of nationwide networking. (Author)

This presentation by the president and chief executive officer of OCLC focuses on library automation and networking in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, citing an article by Richard DeGennaro and relating experiences at OCLC in resource sharing and related information services. (EJS)

A comprehensive automated authority system in place as a part of an integrated database having the flexibility to produce any catalog format is proposed as a means of making the library catalog--whether manual or online--more responsive to comprehensive authority changes, including standards and practices, and more useful to the library patron as…

This paper summarizes initiatives related to standards for bibliographic control in Thailand. Topics addressed include: (1) standardized forms for headings; (2) standard bibliographic description; (3) standardized subject headings; (4) standards for classification schemes; (5) standardized format; (6) software application in libraries and…

This paper discusses the current resurgence of interest in authority files and describes the automated authority files of the National Library of Canada. Factors contributing to this interest in such files include cooperative programs between libraries, the development of international standards, and the impact of computer technology and…

To make scientific, technical, and management information available to the general populace of Wisconsin, the Information Services Division (ISD) of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction undertook a project to establish a one-stop center at the University of Wisconsin that could provide users access to more than a dozen campus libraries.…

Three beliefs about library networks are discussed and shown to be myths: i.e., networks save money, blur the lines between technical and public services, and, by breaking down barriers between libraries, will move the profession from a philosophy of ownership to one of access. (EM)