Discusses how information technology and information retrieval may be used to build the virtual library, based on examples from Carnegie-Mellon University. Topics include information technology infrastructure, including distributed computing; Boolean searching; natural language processing; navigating the Internet; and prototypes and problems at…

Discusses the evolving Global Change Data and Information System (GCDIS) and the need for librarians and information scientists to become part of the user-feedback process to make the GCDIS effective, both now and in the future when public access through the Internet will be possible. (LRW)

Provides background and insight into the totally new telecommunications network recently implemented by OCLC, as well as steps taken to assure that catastrophic events at critical carrier-network locations or disruptive cuts in carrier cable facilities do not result in widespread service outages for OCLC users. (four references) (DB)

Looks back at the innovations/tribulations that went into the making of Merit Network, Inc., Michigan's pioneering Internet provider. Today, Merit is serving as the GigaPoP organization for its two current Internet2 members, Michigan State University and University of Michigan, and will provision a vBNS connection for Wayne State University.…

Introduces concepts of server security and includes articles and sidebars of firsthand accounts of consequences of not devoting enough time to security measures. Outlines the following factors to consider when evaluating a server's risk potential: confidentiality/reproducibility of the data; complexity of the system; backup system and hardware…

Contains 16 articles that discuss activities relating to global change, including world data centers; the Global Change Master Directory, the Global Change Data and Information System (GCDIS) gopher, Project Earthlink, Government Information Locator Service, Global Land Information System, National Resources Inventory, Earth System Science…

An online system designed to help global environmental research, the electronic research system called Eco-Link draws data from various electronic sources including online catalogs and databases, CD-ROMs, electronic news sources, and electronic data subscription services to produce briefing booklets on environmental issues. It can be accessed by…

Focuses on designing a library network to maximize security. Discusses UNIX and file servers; connectivity to campus, corporate networks and the Internet; separation of staff from public servers; controlling traffic; the threat of network sniffers; hubs that eliminate eavesdropping; dividing the network into subnets; Switched Ethernet;…

Illustrates an approach for providing networked access to licensed databases over the Internet by positioning the library between patron and vendor. Describes how the gateway systems and database connection servers work and discusses how treatment of security has evolved with the introduction of the World Wide Web. Outlines plans to reimplement…

Reports the results of a Web-based survey that investigated what plans, if any, librarians have for dealing with the expected obsolescence of the floppy disk and still retain effective library service. Highlights include data storage options, including compact disks, zip disks, and networked storage products; and a copy of the Web survey.…

Describes the layered model of Open Systems Interconnection (OSI); summarizes the three upper and lower layers; and discusses data communications standards associated with specific layers. Architectural concepts are explored, including hierarchy and abstraction, levels of dialogue, internetworking, and end-to-end communication. OSI is compared…

Surveys four possible types of multimedia computer systems: hypermedia, multimedia database, multimedia message, and virtual reality systems. The potential use of multimedia computer systems as public access systems in libraries is discussed, including fiscal, legal, organizational, standardization, and technological challenges that would have to…

Discusses the current status of information technology development in Kenya, especially as it affects higher education. Topics include management and funding of public universities; efforts to survive in the face of decreasing resources; Internet connectivity; telecommunications; network infrastructure; and information technology in university…

Explains how the Directory Service (CCITT X.500/ISO 9594) became an international standard in response to the difficulties of keeping data on information network users current and accessible. Uses of X.500 are described, a technical overview is provided, its functions and protocols are assessed, and directory projects and products are discussed.…

Management of heterogeneous networks is complicated by the persistence of proprietary management schemes. The need for integration of network management capabilities is pressing. The International Organization for Standardization is developing standards for managing networks as part of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) effort. OSI management…