Compares the available databases, retrieval techniques and costs of traditional online searching of remote databases and local online access, i.e., databases available at the point of use via CD-ROMs or site licenses. The options and risks of local online access, and the possible impact on the database industry, are discussed. (CLB)

Considers the appropriateness of using CD-ROM versus online systems. Topics discussed include cost effectiveness; how current the information is; full-text capabilities; a variety of interfaces; graphical user interfaces on CD-ROM; and possibilities for image representations. (LRW)

Identifies the questions librarians should ask before adopting local online, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM and site database systems. User reactions to local online are discussed and the impact of such systems on reference services and the reference librarian's job content are examined. (CLB)

Addresses misconceptions concerning CD-ROM technology. Topics discussed include changes in CD-ROMs and possible obsolescence; high-speed wide area networks, frequency of updates, and pricing; CD-ROM databases in academic libraries; local area networks; interfaces between CD-ROM drives and computers; CD-ROM speed; uses of CD-ROM; and write-once CD…

This study compared the performance of students using the printed and CD-ROM versions of ERIC. Four groups of undergraduates researched assigned topics using either CD-ROM with formal instruction, CD-ROM without instruction, the printed version with instruction, or the printed version without instruction. Data suggest that patrons can use CD-ROM…

Discussion of selection of the InfoTrac Expanded Academic Index database of journal citations to add to the online catalog at a university library considers access to full text on microfilm, coverage, differences between CD-ROM and tape versions, pricing, search capabilities, printing, and downloading. Comparisons are made with the UMI Data…

Describes procedures used at the State University College at Buffalo library to limit CD-ROM searches to journals available in their collection. Modifications to DIALOG OnDisc databases are explained, the limitation of online database searches to local holdings is discussed, and user needs and user satisfaction are considered. (LRW)

Discusses searching from remote workstations by novice undergraduate users based on experiences at Furman University (South Carolina). Highlights include CD-ROM databases versus online searching, including costs; electronic resources at Furman University, including a special lab for biology and chemistry majors; front-end search aids; and software…

Describes a survey of accredited schools of library and information science in the United States and Canada that examined the database searching education that students are currently receiving and changes in this area over the past five years. Topics examined include courses; search time; amount of exposure; coursework; products, hardware and…

Discusses the acquisition of library materials in electronic formats, particularly CD-ROMs and machine-readable data files (MRDFs) in academic libraries, and considers possible problems that can result related to collection development policies. Cooperation in the selection process between subject collectors and technical experts is suggested.…

Presents results of a survey of ARL (Association of Research Libraries) members in the United States and Canada that was conducted to discover which electronic reference options are offered and their impact on library services. Online mediated searching, CD-ROM, end-user searching, and local databases are investigated. (nine references) (LRW)

The advantages and disadvantages of the compact disk version of the DISCLOSURE database are compared to the print version and other online formats. Currentness of information, searching methods, users' perceptions taken from a student survey, price, availability, response time, and browsabiity are considered. Sample menus and screen displays are…

Describes considerations involved in implementing an electronic current awareness service in academic and research organizations, including user needs; personal bibliographic software; data sources, including floppy disk databases, CD-ROM, online databases, and library catalogs; staffing; fees; promotion; search profiles; and recordkeeping.…

Discusses a decline in patron requests for librarian-mediated searches of MEDLINE at Yale University's medical library and describes results of a survey that was conducted to determine possible reasons. The influences of miniMEDLINE (an in-house version), online end-user systems, and CD-ROMs outside the library are examined. (five references) (LRW)