Discusses the history of the reference reform movement that began with an article that described what was wrong with reference. Highlights include the use of technology; remote access; tiered service; appointment-based reference service; alternative staffing patterns; and providing adequate resources to enhance reference service. (LRW)

This discussion of the contributions of Henriette D. Avram to the field of librarianship covers her role in establishing MARC formats as the international standard for library automation and her work in the retrospective conversion of catalogs, establishment of library standards, and creation of information networks. An interview with Dr. Avram is…

Describes an automated library network system designed by the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries that offers traditional serials control functions and access to the actual article content of journals. The design of the database and plans for a document delivery system are discussed. (CLB)

Describes preparations involved in writing the 115-page "Request for Proposal for the Acquisition, Installation, and Maintenance of an On-Line Integrated Library System for the Genesee District Library" (Flint, Michigan). Preliminary investigations, American Library Association annual conference input, the Automation Task Force,…

The Apple-based MITINET system uses several forms of technology (Library of Congress MARC file in microfiche, microcomputers, COM vendor) to produce library database and COM catalog. Cost for MITINET software is based on number of branches or buildings performing conversion, and varies from $250 to $85 per building or branch. (EJS)

Discusses debates that still continue over the value of card catalogs versus online catalogs and other library technology. Highlights include user opinions and needs, libraries being ahead of users in the use of technology, the information age, the value of cataloging, full-text searching, meaning extraction, dataspaces, and the Internet. (LRW)

Describes the experience of an American Library Association (ALA) Fellow at Can Tho University (Vietnam) assisting Khmer monks at the library of Wat Muniransyarama (Temple of Intelligent Light) in designing and implementing a library automation system and network. Highlights the preservation of Khmer and Theravada Buddhist texts and the efforts of…

This set of summaries of problems and issues pertaining to the selection and implementation of automated integrated library information systems (AILS) deals with such topics as the nature of integrated library systems, the rationale for installing such systems, automated systems operations, available technology, and options for obtaining the…

Reports on the third national conference of the American Library Association's Library and Information Technology Association, which was held September 13-16, 1992, in Denver, Colorado. Program highlights are summarized, including virtual communities, virtual reality, the electronic library, artificial intelligence and expert-systems, navigating…

Describes the debate over the discarding of card catalogs once automated, online library catalogs are implemented. The discussion focuses on the classified catalog of the Science and Technology Department at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The neglected state of library archives and historical developments in library catalogs are considered.…

Discussion of the possible changes in Hong Kong in 1997 when rule passes to the People's Republic of China focuses on the uncertain future of libraries and librarians. Topics discussed include the political climate; the departure of qualified Chinese librarians; and the growth of libraries and computerized systems. (LRW)

Discusses results of a survey that compared visions of library leaders to public attitudes about libraries and technology. Topics include conflict between the personal image of libraries versus impersonal technology; the need for reassurance that reading is not being replaced by computers; and the role of the librarian and the library. (LRW)

Discussion of electronic versions of maps focuses on TIGER files (i.e., electronic maps distributed by the U.S. Bureau of the Census) and their manipulation using geographic information system (GIS) technology. Topics addressed include applications of GIS software, projects to improve access to TIGER files, and the role of GIS in libraries. (MES)

Describes the networking of CD-ROM drives in libraries to accommodate users' simultaneous access to the same CD-ROM. Highlights include costs; vendors who supply local area network hardware and software; licensing practices; and a sidebar that describes the use of CD-ROM networks at Vanderbilt University and the University of Kansas. (LRW)

A laserdisc periodical index (InfoTrac) that offers relatively sophisticated search capabilities without librarian assistance or user training is now popular college library research tool. The index database consists of more than half million references to articles and reviews published since 1982 in 1,000 general interest, business, and technical…