This paper introduces a Patron Counting and Analysis (PCA) system that leverages Wi-Fi-connection data to monitor space utilization and analyze visitor patterns in academic libraries. The PCA system offers real-time crowding information to the public and a comprehensive visitor analysis dashboard for library administrators. The system's…

Describes "Self-Serve Reserve", an electronic application developed at the library of Norwich University (Vermont) to handle reserve reading and be easy to use, reduce or eliminate the need for paper copies, deliver imaged documents, require modest start-up costs, and be scalable from a stand-alone workstation to network access.…

Describes OhioLINK, a statewide information network that was developed to cost effectively link and enhance the information resources of Ohio's academic institutions. Highlights include cooperation; funding; the governing structure; and sidebars that discuss the results of a survey of statewide networks. (LRW)

Discussion of CD-ROM as an alternative to online searching for academic libraries focuses on a comparison between online and CD-ROM costs at the University of Natal (South Africa) library. Other factors examined include funding methods; user fees; staff involvement; user training; user access, including search intermediaries and networking; and…

Discussion of choosing database access to satisfy users and budgetary constraints highlights a method to make educated estimates of simultaneous usage levels. Topics include pricing; advances in networks and CD-ROM technology; and two networking scenarios, one in an academic library and one in a corporate research facility. (LRW)

Identifies and discusses four problems librarians face in dealing with the Internet: (1) how to locate information; (2) how to ensure that information is from a quality source; (3) what price should be paid for Internet access; and (4) what recourse is there for incorrect information. Sidebars include Internet site addresses and a discussion of…

Based on a presentation at the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI), this article discusses a university-based computer network that would support electronic publishing. Highlights include the influence on libraries and librarians; technical and operational standards; economic factors; and institutional planning. Six sidebars address other…

Provides guidance to academic librarians for making cost-effective and appropriate purchase and networking decisions for electronic bibliographic database products. Topics include user needs, user and program demographics, academic computing and network support, delivery options, and considerations for the future. (Author/LRW)

This study shows how performance measurement can be developed to take advantage of the most advanced computer software and hardware now available. The "Toolbox" study was commissioned by the European Commission (EC) and undertaken by De Montfort University in partnership with Essex County Libraries and the Library and Information…

Describes OhioLINK, a statewide academic library automation project being developed for state colleges, selected private universities, and the state library. Topics addressed include cost savings; centralized funding; vendor selection; bibliographic and circulation information; commercial databases; cooperation between vendors and librarians; and…