Description of use of Search Helper--a newly developed, user-friendly software package designed to enable a microcomputer to be used in searching Information Access Company databases on Dialog bibliographic retrieval service--at California State University--Long Beach (CSULB). Highlights six databases available, necessary hardware, and reference…

Briefly looks at the present use of computers in library reference service for bibliographic database searching, then surveys the future as indicated by recent developments and ongoing research. Cooperative online reference, local databases, and increasing ease of online information retrieval are discussed. Included are 40 references. (Author/JL)

Describes the development of a machine readable reference information file at the University of California at Los Angeles. The discussion covers factors affecting the database structure, the use of a sophisticated text management system to enter data onto microcomputers, and possible future implementations of the reference information system. (16…