Discusses how standards have shaped libraries in the past and how technological advancement, information standards, and the development of information networks will shape libraries of the future. Librarians and vendors are encouraged to develop a vision of this networked future and become informed about the role standards will play. (EA)

Discussion of the influences of technology on the publishing industry focuses on locally loaded databases and database licensing to help integrate a variety of data into one system for libraries. Local online systems are described, and the responsibilities and roles of the library, the publisher, and the vendor are discussed. (LRW)

Reviews trends in library software development including: (1) microcomputer applications; (2) CD-ROM; (3) desktop publishing; (4) public access microcomputers; (5) artificial intelligence; (6) mainframes and minicomputers; and (7) automated catalogs. (MES)

Discusses innovative approaches to producing audio versions of books, including publication of original manuscripts in audio form; the use of electronic music; children's books with built-in speakers; computer-assisted audio books; and an electronic short story magazine. The future of electronic books and the role of libraries are considered. (MES)

Argues for simplification in the use and development of bibliographic standards to increase usability by librarians and patrons and to reduce costs for libraries. The application of technology such as hypertext is also considered. (EA)

Describes resources available through INTERNET that are of interest to librarians, including electronic newsletters and serials, online library catalogs, bulletin boards, remote access to software or text files, utilities to help navigate the network, sources for learning more about the INTERNET, discussion list guides, and INTERNET library…

Discusses information retrieval standards as tools for interoperability among systems and traces the development of de jure and de facto standards in the U.S. and international telecommunications environment. Implementation of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) and Z39.50 standards is described. (EA)