Five prominent consultants--Richard Boss, Susan Baerg Epstein, Rob McGee, Joseph Matthews, James E. Rush--discuss the most common mistakes vendors make in implementing library automated systems. Suggestions are made for correcting basic problems relating to identification of library needs, communications, delivery dates, inadequate systems, and…

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…

This symposium on printed documentation covers (1) Tacoma Public Library's documentation (Lare Mischo); (2) characteristics of bad documentation (Linda Bills); (3) GEAC manuals (Joe Matthews); (4) Personal Bibliographic Software manuals (Victor Rosenberg); (5) DIALOG documentation (Barbara E. Anderson); (6) documentation problems and improvements…

Guidelines for writing documentation for automated library systems cover (1) gathering information; (2) planning the document (manual types, organization patterns, writing style, conventions and standards, and format); (3) writing techniques; (4) deciding what to include; and (5) editing and testing. (three references) (MES)

Offers guidelines for evaluating library system vendor documentation using the following criteria: physical appearance, audience, orientation, structure, consistency, accuracy, completeness, readability, and usability. Several examples illustrate alternative ways to present information. (two references) (MES)

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)

Discusses issues to be considered in planning a library that will anticipate the needs of the future. Power and telecommunications capacity are stressed, and a checklist of items requiring specific writing services is included. Recommendations for workstation design and structural elements are offered. (MES)

Discussion of synthesized speech and voice recognition focuses on a forum that addressed the potential for speech technologies in libraries. Topics discussed by three contributors include possible library applications in technical processing, book receipt, circulation control, and database access; use by disabled and illiterate users; and problems…

Eight authors discuss five questions related to user searching of online catalogs: What user needs can be met by online assistance? Should assistance be tailored to particular groups? Should there be more than one level of assistance? Do users learn through computer-assisted instruction? and Will increased system friendliness eliminate the need…

Libraries are moving into an era that incorporates improvements of a library's existing databases, embraces the research results of the information-seeking process, and makes fundamental improvements by adding new databases such as WordFocus. These new systems should convert the frustrated user of today's online public access catalog (OPAC) into…

Describes the Maggie III automated library system, which supports a public access catalog, cataloging interface, bibliographic maintenance, circulation, electronic mail, and community information databases, with acquisitions and serials modules planned. Sidebars describe the community information database's structure, planned use of software by…

Provides a brief description of the Z39.50 information retrieval standard and reviews evaluation criteria and questions that should be asked when selecting a Z39.50 client. Areas for consideration include whether to buy or build a Z39.50 client, the end-user's requirements, connecting to a remote server, searching, managing the search response,…

Describes a variety of technological advancements being used at the library of the American Foundation for the Blind to make library operations and services accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired. The database management system INMAGIC is explained, and sidebars describe various other technologies. (LRW)

Discusses the evaluation, design, and objectives of the Distributed Library Initiative at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), an ongoing project collaboratively designed by MIT Information Systems and the MIT Libraries to provide students and faculty with easy access to leading electronic technologies for research and educational…

Eight articles review the progress achieved in making library computing technologies and library services accessible to people with disabilities. Adaptive technologies, automated conversion into Braille, and successful programs that demonstrate compliance with the American with Disabilities Act are described. A resource list is included. (EA)