Examines the work of Paul Otlet as a forerunner of hypertext and as a pioneer in the history of information science. Topics addressed include microtext systems; the Universal Decimal Classification (UDC); hypertext links, navigation, and the UDC; Offices of Documentation; multimedia; a universal network for documentation; user-centeredness; and…

Summarizes what has been suggested so far with regard to the social, political, and economic consequences of transborder data flows involved in the linking of computerized information processing networks. (FM)

Introduces five articles on digital libraries by reviewing related legislation, information networking improvements, efforts to plan a virtual national digital library, and key challenges. The articles are briefly described, and short biographies of the authors are provided. (Contains 10 references.) (KRN)

Examines technical solutions to problems of conventional scientific publishing (rapid growth, literature scatter, increasing costs, excessive delays in publication), and explores new ways of disseminating research information. Publication forms of scholarly journals, past and present, and developments in computer networking and microcomputer…

Noting that standards are needed to enable libraries using different processors and different operating systems to connect their computers and share services in meaningful ways, this article examines the content and status of ANSI Z39.50: Information Retrieval Service Definition and Protocol Specification for Library Applications and related work.…

Availability of low-cost digital optical disks will revolutionize storage and retrieval systems over next decade. Three major factors will effect this change: availability of disks and controllers at low-cost and in plentiful supply; availability of low-cost and better output means for system users; and more flexible, less expensive communication…

Discussion of the impact of the use of information technology on democratic potential highlights the concept of the autopoietic state as a basis for determining appropriate communication policy principles in a network environment. Topics addressed include the relationship between information and power; systems theory; chaos theory; and the…

Examines the history and present state of federal initiatives in electronic networking, particularly the National Information Infrastructure and National Research and Education Network; discusses electronic publishing; and considers implications for national policy. Topics addressed include commercialization; community networking; end-user…