The National Library of Portugal undertook a leadership role in the development of the Portuguese Bibliographic database (PORBASE). The National Library defined cataloging standards and circulated them to Portuguese libraries to create a national catalog. PORBASE is a work in progress with ongoing technical projects and collaboration in the…

Considers electronic interlinkage between two library networks in regard to functions of online shared cataloging and online interlibrary lending based on computerized union catalog. Problem areas are discussed: political climate, professional attitude, incompatibility of organizations, management and staff differences, financial stability,…

Examines the possibility of constructing an online international union catalog from machine readable entries originating in different countries and discusses use of MARC-compatible records as records that can be converted to MARC algorithmically. Sources of cataloging records, problems generated by merging, and resolution of problems are…

Describes the development of a union catalog system on optical data disks for scientific libraries in Milan. The characteristics of the system and the reasons for its creation are discussed, and a normal work session is illustrated. (Author/CLB)

Describes an automation project in Italy in which public libraries share functions such as cataloging and interlibrary loans by setting up a virtual network of microcomputers using TINlib software and exchange data using floppy disks. The operation of the system is described, problems encountered are identified, and future projects are discussed.…

Describes the Pica Library Automation Network (originally the Project for Integrated Catalogue Automation), which is based on a centralized bibliographic database. Highlights include the Pica conception of library automation, online shared cataloging system, circulation control system, acquisition system, and online Dutch union catalog with…

Discusses the rationale, methodology, capabilities and problems of a local area network created for the Library Consortium of Health Institutions in Buffalo, using a multi-user microcomputer. The rationale and design of a new network, designed to better meet information and compatibility requirements, are described and suggestions to network…