Seventy-two libraries participated in the development of a cost model for library catalogs, considered alternate forms of catalogs (including various combinations of card, computer output microfilm, and online), and prepared input data for computer runs to arrive at costs. Card catalogs appeared to be the least costly. (FM)

Examines reasons for cataloging backlogs in libraries and describes a preliminary theory of backlog dynamics. Formulas for predicting backlogs are discussed, backlog models are explained, the use of computer simulation software to form models is described, and further research is suggested. (five references) (LRW)

Describes the Dewey Online Retrieval System (DORS), which was developed at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), to experiment with classification-based search strategies in online catalogs. Classification structures in automated information retrieval are discussed; and specifications for a classification retrieval interface are…

Proposes a model based on mechanical selection for core collection development that is appropriate for large and medium-size academic research libraries. Statistics that show a large percent of desirable books are published by a small percent of publishers are presented, and titles published by university presses and by commercial presses are…

Delineates the types of decisions involved in the preservation of library collections and suggests decision-making structures and criteria for each type of decision. The information gaps which limit the ability to make intelligent preservation decisions are also discussed. (Author/JL)

Three articles on preservation present a theoretical framework for making preservation selection decisions by Atkinson, comments on Atkinson's concepts and possible mechanisms for identifying collections for top priority in microfilming by Child, and results of a Research Libraries Group study of the costs of preservation microfilming by McClung .…