Provides a generalized overview of the problems that software buyers are likely to encounter and could overcome. Experiences of Online, Inc., in purchasing programs, using software documentation or manuals, and problems with software, provide examples. (EJS)

Describes the use of a microcomputer system to generate a personal database of books read by adding titles, displaying title/author information, and editing title/author information and discusses the system design, i.e., file structure (author index, book index, book, author), the main driver, function subroutines, and screen subroutines. (EJS)

FRED (a Front End for Databases) was conceived to alleviate data access difficulties posed by the heterogeneous nature of online databases. A hardware/software layer interposed between users and databases, it consists of three subsystems: user-interface, database-interface, and knowledge base. Architectural alternatives for this database machine…

Summarizes automation of a specialized library at Apple Computer, Inc., describing software packages chosen for the following functions: word processing/text editing; cataloging and circulation; reference; and in-house databases. Examples of each function and additional sources of information on software and equipment mentioned in the article are…

Summarizes types of machine access available for users of Chemical Abstracts Online, a database which can accept and print out graphics images of chemical compounds. The use of Tektronix terminals, capabilities and limitations of other types of graphic termials and microcomputers, and estimated costs are noted. (EJS)

Examines features of consumer online services (CompuServe, Source, Apple) highlighting electronic mail, job listing, news and "tip" information, financial services, programing, citizen band simulation, online encyclopedia, costs, Gamemaster (a game system in Evanston, Illinois), electronic bulletin boards, and communications software…

Discusses use of microcomputer at Chicago Public Library to generate a "subject guide" wall chart of 549 frequently requested subjects with corresponding Library of Congress and Dewey classification numbers. Background of the project, computer software used, field testing, cost, and errors are noted. A copy of the chart is appended. (EJS)

The Tarrytown Technical Information Center at General Foods produces report style searches by using upgraded equipment which allows search strategies to be stored and edited offline, thus reducing costs for both online searching and for the searcher's time. A computer program for eliminating duplicate bibliographic citations is included. (RBF)