Discusses the need for more technology training for library employees. Highlights include computer literacy skills; productivity; knowledge of operating systems; troubleshooting with hardware; ongoing training in information technology; and placing more importance on the computer skills of prospective employees. (LRW)

Discussion of the potential effects of fiber optic-based communication technology on information networks and systems design highlights library automation. Topics discussed include computers and telecommunications systems, the importance of information in national economies, microcomputers, local area networks (LANs), national computer networks,…

The introduction to a special issue on locally loaded databases in online library systems discusses three trends in using technology to provide greater access to materials available in library collections: unification of local collections; access to outside resources; and inclusion of reference works and full text in online catalogs. (three…

Discusses the development of technical services workstations at Mann Library at Cornell University (New York). Topics addressed include project goals, communications software, the operating environment, personal information management software, implementation and training, possible future applications, and the impact of new technology…

Discusses technology and its effects on society and humans, particularly library and information technology. Highlights include the evolving history of technology; and values related to technology in libraries, including democracy, stewardship, service, intellectual freedom, privacy, literacy and learning, rationalism, and equity of access. (LRW)

Describes the development of the national integrated online information network in the Republic of China. Highlights include a history of library and information automation in Taiwan, the coordination efforts of the central government, creation of the Chinese MARC format, and automation under the leadership of the National Central Library.…

The first of two articles on MELVYL, the University of California's online library system, discusses the next generation of public access information retrieval systems for research libraries based on lessons learned from 10 years of MELVYL. The second article considers MELVYL in the larger context of the University of California's information…

Includes five papers presented at the 1995 VTLS Inc. Fifth Annual Director's Conference in Roanoke (Virginia), entitled "Back to Basics: Rethinking Libraries." Topics include libraries' use of high technology, collection management and electronic publishing, public services and telecommuting clientele, what to expect of library school…

Includes seven articles that report on the 1991 library director's conference sponsored by VTLS Inc. Highlights include linking multimedia digital libraries; NREN (National Research and Education Network) and CNI (Coalition for Networked Information); the role of NCLIS (National Commission on Libraries and Information Sciences): library…

Discussion of Internet software and its use in libraries focuses on a software evaluation program at the undergraduate library at Southern Illinois University. Highlights include staff training for information technology, availability and selection of shareware and freeware, and an evaluation form for Internet software. (LRW)

Presents four articles that explore various uses of information technology in libraries: (1) the publication of faculty bibliographies by a university library using microcomputers; (2) automation in Hungarian libraries; (3) integrating Utlas' CD-CATSS system into the cataloging workflow of a university library; and (4) reevaluating an integrated…

Explores the impact of electronic networking on social evolution, new notions of literacy, and social equity. Strategies to develop the Internet/NREN as a vehicle for reconnecting segments of society and promoting a network-literate population are needed. The role of libraries and the educational community in accomplishing these objectives must be…