Discussion of factors contributing to successful procurement of automated library system focuses on preparation of Request for Proposal (RFP) and elements included in the RFP--administrative requirements, functional requirements, performance requirements, reliability requirements, testing procedures, standardized response language, location table,…

Discussion of care and planning given to the implementation of an automated library system highlights informing the staff in the early stages, project management, involvement of the entire staff, the control log, time and money, where and when to go online, and implementation consultants. (EJS)

Discusses concerns of librarians entering field of library automation emphasizing issues surrounding automated circulation control systems and online catalogs. Factors which have contributed to dramatic growth in these areas are enumerated: MARC II format, reduced computer costs, commercial vendors, scarce resources, and turnkey systems. (EJS)

Discussion of the maintenance of both the software and hardware in an automated library system highlights maintenance by the vendor, contracts and costs, the maintenance log, downtime, and planning for trouble. (EJS)

Considers site requirements that should be specified by the library and the vendor for a library automated system located at a central site away from the library, including size of site, the environment, cleanliness, electrical power, security/safety (fire, restricted access), site certification, telecommunications, and terminal sites. (EJS)

Provides an overview of the basics of retrospective conversion and guidelines for the analysis of the collection, including its depth, age, and extent of foreign and nonprint materials. The use of accepted cataloging standards is advocated. (CLB)