Provides a brief description of Usenet, the computer network, and discusses how it may be applied in library settings. How to become a Usenet user, when to choose Usenet instead of a listserv group, and its use as a discussion and reference tool are covered. Six examples of Usenet communications are included. (nine references) (KRN)

Discussion of library reference services and the conflict between richness (complexity) of services and the reach (number of users that can be served) focuses on information technology that is used in electronic commerce and available on the Internet. Discusses changing roles of libraries and networked information environments. (Author/LRW)

Discussion of the development of a knowledge navigation system to assist users in searching a large database in a local/wide-area network environment considers the construction of navigation maps, the use of DOS and Windows, connection with electronic mail, and parallel operation with other systems such as BITNET. (28 references) (MES)

Describes computer networks that support scholarly research and explains the idea of a colibratory, i.e., a collaborative, distributed, experimental scholarly information network that is analogous to a traditional library. Information resources that could be available are discussed, technological considerations in networking are described, and…

Discusses the availability of computer conferences on the Internet and their practical benefits to librarians, including problem solving, sharing employment information, conducting surveys, discussing new products and services, and announcing conferences and meetings. (two references) (EA)

Describes LibRef-L, an electronic mail-based conference that was developed to provide a forum for the discussion of library reference service issues. Networks and electronic mail are described; a profile of subscribers is given; and how to subscribe to LibRef-L is explained. (two references) (LRW)

Provides annotated listing and subscription procedures for four Listserv discussion groups focusing on outdoor, adventure, or experiential education: "AEELIST" is set up for anyone involved in experiential education; "Australian Outdoor Ed" focuses on current research and teaching interests; "Wildornt" facilitates…

Presents a way to model a large class of reference information based on a semantic network technique with embedded argumentation of the information provider. Shows by discussion of several alternatives that the approach is flexible enough to be adapted to different user and system requirements. (Author/AEF)

Introduces the Internet, including a brief history of the system, the essential components, and a step-by-step procedure for getting started. Discusses online services of specific interest to Hispanics. Also considers the political debate over privatization of services. (RAH)

Discusses networked information resources used by reference librarians in research libraries. Highlights include the NREN (National Research and Education Network); the Internet; network architecture; the national information infrastructure; the effect of electronic information on reference desk transactions; the changing nature of research; the…

Four articles describe the usefulness of the Internet to reference librarians and discuss Internet search tools: "Getting Started on the Net" (Karen R. Diaz); "Gopher Searching Using VERONICA" (Lousie McGillis); "How to Use VERONICA To Find Information on the Internet" (Jackie Mardikian); and "The Internet…

Reviews the history of OCLC and describes current and future objectives. Highlights include membership; network affiliations; cataloging services; interlibrary loan; EPIC, a new reference system; a new telecommunications network; PRISM, a new online system for cataloging and resource sharing; pricing strategies; international operations; and…

Discusses the use of the Internet for ready reference and considers limitations, reference policy, and cost issues. Highlights include general reference sources; database searching on the Internet; Gopher; bibliographic control and access to Internet resources; personnel issues; and levels of service. (Contains 30 references.) (LRW)

Summarizes the effects OhioLINK, a networked patron self-initiated interlibrary borrowing system, has had on the traditional interlibrary loan (ILL) department at Miami University (OH). Finds Miami's lending to 11 other schools decreased 13% and filled photocopy requests increased 17% while Miami's borrowing increased less than 2%, filled loan…

Discusses the development of practical strategies for library mediation between Internet resources and potential users. Topics addressed include a hierarchy of information skills; awareness of information services and resources; the information structure of a discipline; analysis of information needs; and retrieval, evaluation, and management of…