This overview of OhioLINK, a library automation project that links 17 academic libraries and the state library in Ohio, describes the planning, governance, mandates, and structure of the network. Implementation of OhioLINK at Miami University is discussed, including selection of a library automation system, representation on OhioLINK committees,…

Discussion of planning for automation in school libraries focuses on plans in the North Kitsap (Washington) School District. Highlights include selection of microcomputer-based hardware and software to support local area and wide area networks; a circulation system and an online public access catalog (OPAC); and database creation and retrospective…

Reviews five CD-ROM catalogs: (1) Auto-Graphics Impact; (2) Brodart LePac; (3) GRC LaserGuide; (4) Library Corporation Intelligent Catalog; and (5) MARCIVE Pac. General guidelines for selecting a CD-ROM catalog are discussed, and vendor addresses and telephone numbers are listed. (MES)

Provides an overview of the American Library Association (ALA) 1991 midwinter conference. Highlights include federal legislation, the organization of library support staff, fees for library services, library collection preservation policies, electronic access, access policy guidelines for academic libraries, reference staffing for electronic…

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 the need to impose a rigidly controlled structure on the machine-readable catalog, the machine capabilities and limitations for achieving that control, possibilities for machine control of the catalog, and the extension of those possibilities to permit a degree of control not possible in a manual system. (Author/LS)

Discusses a problem commonly encountered in library automation projects: the conversion from existing card catalog formats to machine readable catalog (MARC) records. Catalog formats, the advantages of full versus limited records, changing computer technology, the advantages of full MARC records, and record standardization are among the topics…

Presents overview of library uses of automation, noting the earliest example of a "black box" in 1588, the "indicator" invented in England in 1863, various forms of card catalogs, and computer solutions posed by Vannevar Bush, J. C. R. Licklider, Project Intrex, and John G. Kemeny. Ten references are cited. (EJS)

Lamentably, the likelihood is that cataloging information provided by the Library of Congress will continue to function inadequately in the communication process unless we at the local level do something about it. (Author)

A computer system which has the ability to transfer information directly from OCLC to the in-house computer was developed for use in the acquisition and processing of library materials for the Claremont College (California) libraries. Extensions of the system including automated circulation and conversion to online catalogs are being considered.…

Discussion of automation in the Oxford College Libraries (England) begins with background on the university library system, which consists of numerous independent libraries. Centralized and decentralized automation activities are described, and hardware and software for the microcomputer-based system at the University College Library are…

Describes the conversion of card catalog records at William Jasper Kerr Library, Oregon State University, to an online system. Discussion covers the use of OCLC and student assistants, procedures and specifications, and problems associated with massive retrospective conversion needs and uncertain budget allocations. Eight sources are recommended.…

Discusses the Virginia Tech Library System (VTLS) which is currently in an intermediate step between a basic short-record circulation and finding system and a totally integrated library processing system that will incorporate circulation control, acquisitions, serials, and an online catalog. (CHC)

Discussion of human engineering factors of using online catalogs offers guidelines for selection and placement of terminals and furniture. (eight references) (MES)

Describes the implementation of CD-ROM catalogs in two secondary school media centers. Hardware, software, and network details are presented. Database building is discussed, and factors to be considered in retrospective conversion are listed. Guidelines for student and faculty training are offered. (MES)