Provides guidelines for purchasing and installing CD-ROM technology in school libraries. Considerations include hardware and software selection and familiarity with new products. Two lists are provided that contain contact information for six companies and recommendations for six standard CD-ROM reference sources to include on a network. (JKP)

Discusses computer vendors who position themselves as value-added resellers to benefit school library media specialists by assisting them in purchasing effective and appropriate technology products and services. Explains the benefits of developing a good relationship with a vendor, even if the cost is higher than purchasing through a catalog. (LRW)

A computer expert describes two stand-alone, multimedia CD-ROM computer systems suitable for school and public libraries: a budget version for less than $2000 and a power version for about $3000. Recommends specific personal computer models, monitors, operating systems, processors, RAM (random access memory), hard drives, video subsystems, CD-ROM…

Presents a guide for school librarians to the terminology involving different types of Internet connections. Highlights include determining how the Internet will be used; organizations that offer free access; commercial online services; Internet access providers; dial-up versus dedicated connections; costs; and hardware and software…

Describes a survey conducted in 1997 in seven school districts in Nassau County (New York) to determine the use of computer technology in elementary school classrooms. Highlights include number of computers per classroom, number of newer computers, Internet access, and future plans. (LRW)

Describes the use of Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) and Commodore Dynamic Total Vision (CDTV) technology in school library media center reference services. CD-I and CDTV are compared to CD-ROM regarding hardware, editing, and software; and to videodisks regarding hardware, analog/digital, standardization, audio/video, and cost. (Contains 12…

Provides librarians who are responsible for implementing a new school library with an overview of the process. Topics include ordering circulating and reference books; computer hardware and software; supplies and other miscellaneous items, including other media formats such as videotapes; furniture and shelving; and a time line for planning. (LRW)

Discusses CD-ROM technology in conjunction with three components of the virtual library: (1) a fully functional computerized network; (2) digital information that is content rich; (3) knowledgeable users. These concepts are related to the results of a study of CD-ROM applications in 301 secondary-school library media centers. (eight references)…

Suggests ways to stretch media center budgets for technology, based on experiences at Winona Middle School (Minnesota). Topics include keeping statistics, hardware purchase and warranty information, centralizing purchases, planning for the reallocation of hardware and software, creative financing, working with business and community groups, staff…

Describes the results of a survey of school librarians that investigated satisfaction with their selection of library automation systems. Discusses purchasing decisions; networking; Web-based systems; user friendliness; efficiency and usability; vendor integrity; technical support; training; documentation; authority control; links to Internet…