Richmond Public Library (RPL) is a four-branch suburban library with the highest per capita circulation of any comparable library in Canada. While DVDs naturally fit into RPL's emphasis on popular material, circulating them using the standard model proved problematic: Long hold queues built up, DVDs idled on the hold shelves, and the circulation…

Describes the origins of hypertext and reviews the history of the concept of nonsequential access to information that led to hypertext. Technological developments that have been combined with hypertext are discussed, including workstations, video and laser disk technology, and microcomputers; and library applications of hypertext and hypermedia…

Reviews current developments in multimedia computing for both the business and consumer markets, including interactive multimedia players; compact disc-interactive (CD-I), including levels of audio quality, various video specifications and visual effects, and software; digital video interactive (DVI); and multimedia personal computers. (LRW)

Describes jukeboxes that are currently available for use by libraries to control the security and safety of CD-ROMs. Nine manufacturers are listed, and the alternative of installing an array in which each CD-ROM is in its own drive is explained. (LRW)

Discusses literature available on CD-ROMs, including children's literature, beginning writer packages, literary CD-ROMs, and literary companions. Asserts that the multimedia aspects of CD-ROM technology facilitate depth of understanding of the literature. Includes a sidebar with CD-ROM publisher contact information. (JKP)

Presents a selective annotated bibliography of 61 items that deal with topics related to document delivery, including networks; hypertext; interlibrary loan; computer security; electronic publishing; copyright; online catalogs; resource sharing; electronic mail; electronic libraries; optical character recognition; microcomputers; liability issues;…

Presents guidelines for effective presentations using audiovisual aids to highlight the key points. Discusses simplicity and the use of one concept on each slide or transparency; the best use of visuals; text legibility; consistency; the number of visuals; software tools; and where to buy clip art and stock photos on CD-ROM. (LRW)

Discusses and evaluates fine art available on CD-ROM and the World Wide Web, and lists 12 recommended Web sites. (PEN)

Compares Frame Relay with digital and analog alternatives for connecting sites on a Wide Area Network. Cost considerations, the concepts on which the technology is based, its carrying capacity, the use of CD-ROM and Graphical User Interface (GUI) on Frame Relay, and engineering bandwidth limitations are covered. (KRN)

Discusses the importance of training end users in how to use CD-ROMs and offers a check list for CD-ROM trainers. Topics include what CD-ROMs have to offer users; electronic research; adult-education challenges, including visual and auditory challenges; training practices; and using CD-ROMs for training. (LRW)

Discusses the processes and difficulties involved in the creation of a multimedia CD-ROM. Topics include searching for a publisher, how deadlines affect creativity, the editorial process, use of politically correct terminology and its influence on content and historical representation, obtaining rights to reproduce images, working with photographs…

Circulation for CD-ROMs rose from 56 per month in 1993 to 493 per month in 1996 at the City of York Public Library in Toronto, Canada. Discusses the need for technical expertise; quantity and quality of CD-ROMs; assessing the costs; product durability, damage, and losses; and legal issues under the North American Free Trade Agreement. Lists the…

Presents the results of a comparative evaluation of four CD-ROM retrieval software packages using the Revised Richards-Brown CD-ROM Software Evaluation Model. CD Answer, SPIRS, KAware2, and ROMware are evaluated, and results indicate that SPIRS and CD Answer are the favored packages. (LRW)

Lists library-related computer products and services in five sections: (1) Products and Services, including hardware and supplies, software, and services; (2) Vendor Product/Service Listing, which shows the products and services offered by each vendor; (3) Product Names; (4) Vendors, Producers, and Distributors, including addresses and phone…

Saint Mary's University Academic Library (Texas) established remote access to its computer network. Discusses access issues including network protocols and support; multitasking; CD-ROMs; printing capabilities; connection methods; and keyboards. Describes choices of operating systems and software: J&L Chatterbox, bulletin board systems, and…