Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

Discussion of the use of microcomputers in a cooperative public library system notes library management applications in areas of clerical work, word processing, book ordering, inventories, special collection catalogs, mailing lists, and a union list of serials. (EJS)

A retrospective conversion tool permitting libraries with a microfiche reader and Apple microcomputer to convert bibliographic and holdings files to computer-readable tapes in MARC format is described. The basic process, library costs and MARC tape costs, use of system in Wisconsin, and user's view of the system are noted. (EJS)

Many library operations involving large data banks lend themselves readily to computer operation. In setting up library computer programs, in changing or expanding programs, cost in programming and time delays could be substantially reduced if the programmers had access to library computer programs being used by other libraries, providing similar…

Description of a microcomputer-based system for local processing of interlibrary loan (ILL) requests developed at Environmental Protection Agency library discusses database management systems, hardware, databases, and command files. Subsequent changes resulting from system's implementation at East Carolina University Health Sciences Library are…

Discusses use of computer programs in handling such library tasks as cataloging, inventory, and circulation. Reviews several programs and provides a listing of available library software. These include library catalog programs, circulation/overdues programs, and inventory control. (JN)

Outline of basic requirements needed to outfit a small public library with microcomputers discusses necessary equipment, cost effectiveness, management information systems, statistics generated, software available, and library procedures to be automated. Fifteen references are cited. (EJS)

Preliminary description of design of electronic library and home information delivery system highlights potentials of personal computer interface program (applying for service, assuring that users are valid, checking for measures, searching, locating titles) and incorporation of concepts used in other information systems (security checks,…

Defines in general terms the nature of computers, describes the various types of computers, discusses the characteristics and applications of the types of computers mentioned, reviews some basic facts about computer technology and computer hardware, and outlines a set of options for libraries considering acquiring a computer system. (JL)

The unprecedented growth of the information sources concerning science and technology makes it particularly urgent that the processes of information storage, information retrieval, information processing according to needs, representation of results and their storage in preparation for the subsequent processing stages be mechanized. With this end…

Examines the automated library system marketplace from three perspectives: the turnkey system (vendor provides complete package--hardware, software, installation, training assistance--to meet needs surrounding particular library function), systems developed by one library which may be transferred to another, and the library microcomputer. Vendor…

BALLOTS is a computerized system to support acquisitions and cataloging in the Stanford University Libraries. The system is divided into ten computerized functions, each supporting a specific type of library processing. The library staff communicates on-line with the system using four on-line files for searching: the MARC file, the In Process…

The eight articles in this special section on microcomputer applications in libraries discuss selection of microcomputer courseware for school media collections, public and special libraries, information retrieval, and library education. References and an annotated bibliography are provided. (Request subscription information from W. Robert…

More than 100 representatives from various types of libraries attended a clinic on the current and future applications of minicomputers in library operations. Among the library-related problems considered were: (1) circulation and control, (2) cataloging, (3) education and training, (4) information retrieval, (5) acquisitions, and (6) serials…

Three papers on system requirements for on-line and batch retrieval presented at the American Society for Information Science (ASIS) annual meeting are included here. At G.D. Searle, data for records related to pharmacology screening are used in a batch system, and an on-line system is used to search information on mutagenic, carcinogenic, and…