Reprints of 20 articles pertaining to the topics of end-users and public access appear in this volume, which is one in a series of volumes of reprints from "ONLINE" and "DATABASE" magazines. Edited for information professionals who use electronically distributed databases, these articles address such topics as: (1) managing a…

Provides background on ERIC and describes how to search the compact disc version of the ERIC database using SilverPlatter. (MES)

Discussion of instruction for library patrons in the use of CD-ROM products focuses on the integration of CD-ROM instruction into standard user education based on the Association of College and Research Libraries/Bibliographic Instruction Section's objectives for academic bibliographic instruction. Goals specific to CD-ROM are described. (eight…

Discusses six aspects of compact disc (CD-ROM) publishing: (1) development costs; (2) design considerations; (3) marketing; (4) software design; (5) hardware; and (6) the library market. (MES)

Presents guidelines developed at Cornell University for selection of compact-disc databases for public use in libraries. Criteria are suggested for the following areas: (1) collection development; (2) administrative considerations; (3) vendor considerations; (4) search capabilities; and (5) ease of use. One reference is listed. (MES)

Summarizes early-user response from several academic and special libraries to CD-ROM information products, including (1) promotion; (2) training; (3) user reaction; (4) impact on online and print usage; and (5) costs and other barriers. Caution is advised in interpreting these responses. A list of the 11 sources for the survey is included. (MES)

Describes the experiences of the University of Southern California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Biomedical Library in testing MEDLINE on CD-ROM. Preparations for testing are discussed, as well as patron response to the system, measured by evaluation forms, and implications for libraries providing new technological tools for patrons. (MES)

This description of Info Trac, a laser disc periodical reference system, reviews professional reactions to the system and several user studies. Criticisms are discussed to define the role of such systems in research libraries, and data are presented in five tables. (17 references) (MES)

Based on the experiences of the staff at the Penn State University Libraries, this article focuses on two issues involved in public use of CD-ROM products in an academic library setting: placement of CD-ROM systems in the reference area; and staffing and responsibility for equipment and software. (MES)

Summarizes advantages, components, and manufacturers of CD-ROM networks based on experiences at the Central Connecticut State University library. Three configurations are described, and the steps in installing a network where a large number of databases are shared by a number of microcomputers are detailed. Licensing and network performance issues…

Examines shelving policies for CD-ROMs that accompany books, based on experiences at Texas A&M University. After studying circulation data, loss rates, and the availability of replacements, it is recommended that the CD-ROMS be shelved with the books on the shelves instead of in a special separate location. (LRW)

This two-page paper is an instructional guide for the use of the DIALOG OnDisc version of ERIC on CD-ROM in a university library. It is noted that the computer with which the guide is to be used provides access to citations of documents and journal articles in the ERIC database from 1980 to the present. Instructions are provided in a sequential,…

Saint Mary's University Academic Library (Texas) established remote access to its computer network. Discusses access issues including network protocols and support; multitasking; CD-ROMs; printing capabilities; connection methods; and keyboards. Describes choices of operating systems and software: J&L Chatterbox, bulletin board systems, and…

Offers a model for academic libraries that bases decisions on CD-ROM cataloging, circulating, and housing on three factors: type of data on a CD-ROM, who will use the data, and how they will use it. Four types of CD-ROMs are discussed: music, reference, data, and CD-ROMs that accompany other materials. (DGM)

Describes the Collection Analysis CD (CACD) developed by Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) and the Amigos Bibliographic Council to help libraries, especially academic libraries, analyze their book collections. Use of the CACD for pointing out gaps in the collection and areas of overlaps with other libraries is described, and sample reports and…