The Memex Research Institute (MRI), an independent nonprofit research and development organization, has created an electronic library program of shared research and development to make the collective vision of Vannevar Bush's "memex" more concrete. Program is working toward the creation of large, publicly available indexed electronic image…

Reports on an initiative by the Toronto Public Library to create the "Virtual Reference Library" (VRL). Describes the first service to be offered, a Dewey application called "Science Net." Discusses the VRL and its precursor, objectives, basis for its funding, technical aspects, progress to date and future direction. (AEF)

This overview of the Research Libraries Group (RLG) discusses historical background, collaboration, new needs and expectations, the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), the CitaDel service, the ARIEL service, the Eureka service, the Zephyr server, and JACKPHY-Plus Script Development, and preservation. (JLB)

Describes the range of products and services offered by VTLS, a company that offers comprehensive, integrated library automation software and customer support. VTLS's growth and development in the United States and abroad is described, and nine sidebar articles detail system features and applications in public, academic, and virtual libraries. (20…

Provides evaluation of three components of Faxon's LINX On-Line Remote Access Serials Management System in use at Brandeis University: Datalinx, online component which provides display-only access to Faxon's files, plus electronic mail and computer-based instruction functions; SC-10, online component encompassing serials check-in and claiming; new…

Reviews information technology and resource sharing projects in Indiana. Topics include ACCESS INDIANA, an information infrastructure developed to expand Internet access, improve online access to government information, and accelerate the development of community networks; library automation; cooperative library services; high school library media…

This overview of information technology in Pennsylvania discusses Internet access in public libraries; technology infrastructure; strategic partnerships; future possibilities; distance learning for small, rural, and/or poor school districts; an electronic communication network; a computer bulletin board for teachers; and a database for school,…

This paper explores features of automated acquisitions systems now implemented and discusses features that might be implemented in the next few years. Distributed acquisitions, ordering, receiving, reconciliation, management reporting, and collection development (selection of current materials, retrospective purchasing, and comparative…

Describes the first library-sponsored Electronic Bulletin Board System (BBS), begun in November 1981 at North-Pulaski Branch of Chicago Public Library. Examples of logon routines, menu displays, recent features of the People's Message System, and censorship statements are included. BBS sources (noting address and price) and a nine-item…

This guide to functions to consider in selecting an academic library automation system to operate in a networked environment covers (1) the current academic networking environment; (2) library automation hardware and software platforms; (3) user interface requirements for public access; and (4) security and authentication. (10 references) (MES)

Describes information technology projects in Kansas, including state library World Wide Web service; University of Kansas Medical Center's online information center; the Kansas Research and Education Network, comprised of elementary and secondary schools and higher education institutions; the state university's systemwide access to information…

Discusses the need for new technologies and information delivery services in Greece, and describes current activities related to the support of Greek scientists and researchers. Highlights include data networks infrastructure; information centers; the National Documentation Center; library services, including electronic document delivery and…

Describes the development, current status, and future goals and plans of library and information networks in Ohio. Highlights include OCLC; OhioLINK, incorporating state-assisted universities, two-year colleges, the state library, and private university libraries; a school library network; a public library information network; a telecommunications…

This article examines fiber optic technology, explains some of the key terminology, and speculates about the way fiber optics will change our world. Applications of fiber optics to library systems in three major areas--linkage of a number of mainframe computers, local area networks, and main trunk communications--are highlighted. (EJS)

Describes the creation of the Knowledge Navigation Center (KNC) in the Graduate Library at University of Michigan. The planning group identified five main specialty areas: GIS; imaging and multimedia; text; distance learning/interactive technologies; and Internet tools. (Author/AEF)