Outlines a process for downloading MARC format bibliographic data into a form readable for an Apple Macintosh computer running HyperCard software. Loading procedures for two data sources--an OCLC format tape and records from UCLA's ORION public access catalog--are discussed, and the use of a minicomputer system is considered. (eight references)…

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…

Discussion of downloading from online public access catalogs focuses on downloading to MS-DOS microcomputers from the INNOPAC online catalog system. Tools for capturing and postprocessing downloaded files are described, technical and institutional constraints on downloading are addressed, and an innovative program for overcoming such constraints…

This report describes an online public access catalog (OPAC) developed at Pennsylvania State University which downloads, manages, and manipulates data once it has been retrieved. The paper begins with a list of the 12 features of the system, which is called MicroLIAS (Library Information Access System): (1) build and fully index any number of…

Four articles review the development of the MELVYL system, which began as the online catalog for the University of California campuses. Topics discussed include union catalogs; local library systems versus bibliographic utilities; retrospective conversion; MELVYL as a reference tool; and an online survey of remote use of MELVYL. (LRW)

This survey of 57 members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) examines technical and management issues in providing remote access to their online catalogs, as well as with instructions and services for remote users. It is noted that most ARL libraries have not yet conducted studies to project the extent of use of remote access, although…

This guide was developed to support Internet access to library catalogs at the University of Georgia (UGA). Since the UGA Libraries can only connect to the Internet using TELNET 3270 emulation, this guide is restricted to library systems which support that protocol. Section 1 of the guide presents the commands that are needed to gain access to the…

Discusses factors to consider when estimating the number of public access terminals (PACs) or workstations needed in public and academic libraries for online catalogs, including building size and layout, physical facilities, resources available through the system, peripheral equipment, graphical user interfaces, remote users, system capacity, and…

Describes the use of microcomputers and relational database management systems to improve access to numeric databases by the Data and Program Library Service at the University of Wisconsin. The internal records management system, in-house reference tools, and plans to extend these tools to the entire campus are discussed. (3 references) (CLB)

Describes a Macintosh user interface to the NOTIS (Northwestern Online Total Integrated System) online public access catalog (OPAC) developed at the University of Delaware. Adaptation of the HyperCard-based interface from Cornell University, MacPAC, is described; testing and marketing is discussed; and future developments are addressed. (six…

Describes the development of a computerized library instruction program using presentation software at Texas A&M University. Application to end-user training on the OPAC (online public access catalog) is explained, software capabilities and hardware requirements are discussed, the design of an audiotape narrative is described, and student…

Describes the design and development of the Mercury Electronic Library Project at Carnegie Mellon University that resulted in a library information system that provides access to the library's online catalog as well as to other databases. The distributed architecture of the system is explained, and future plans are discussed. (two references) (LRW)

Discusses issues related to the idea of a virtual library, or electronic library, in an academic setting. Topics discussed include access to academic libraries via personal computers; online catalogs; wide area networks, such as Internet, and their impact on library and computer center services; administrative issues; human and technological…

Identifies characteristics of the international student population and patterns of international students' library use. The students' prior use of microcomputers and their current perceived difficulties in using libraries are reported, and the implications for libraries are drawn. Fourteen tables provide data about student characteristics and…

This report examines and evaluates the application of prototyping methodology in the design of a microcomputer-based online library catalog. The methodology for carrying out the research involves a five-part examination of the problem on both the theoretical and applied levels, each of which is discussed in a separate section as follows: (1) a…