The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Discussion of the acquisition of small computer systems (microcomputers and software) by libraries for their own use covers the decision-making process, five options available for acquiring software, stand-alone microcomputer packages for library housekeeping, and national bibliographic control of computer software. Twenty-six references are…

Reports on the use of microcomputers in comprehensive library circulation systems. Topics covered include system requirements (reliability, completeness); determining circulation system needs (saving money, improving service, modernization); limitations of microcomputers (capacity, kinds of data stored, number of stations or terminals); system…

This discussion of three automated acquisitions systems--Bib-Base/Acq, The Book Trak Ordering System, and Card Datalog Acquisitions Module--covers searching and updating, editing, acquisitions functions and statistics, purchase orders and order file, budgeting and accounts maintenance, defining parameters, documentation, security, printing, and…

Lists computer programs selected on basis of following criteria: (1) applicability or easy adaptability to academic or research library environment; (2) operative on three microcomputer brands found in academic and research libraries; (3) good or excellent reviews appearing in software magazines; (4) price ranging from $50-$350. Vendor addresses…

This annual article reviews the progress and pitfalls experienced by the automated library system marketplace during 1985. Marketplace activity is represented by events in four segments: turnkey systems; library-developed software; software designed to run exclusively on microcomputers; and production of computer output microform catalogs. List of…

Discusses number and type of microcomputer software programs useful to libraries and types of hardware on which they run, as identified by Nolan Information Management Services. Highlights include general application programs, applications designed to support library technical processes, producers of library software, and choosing among options.…

This annual review article examines the automated library system marketplace from four perspectives: turnkey circulation systems, library-developed software which may be purchased by other libraries, the microcomputer segment of market, and production of COM catalogs. Addresses of 86 turnkey vendors, software vendors, library-developed systems,…

Descriptions of available microcomputer software cover basic software, word processing, database management systems, in-house information retrieval, searching of external online information retrieval systems, in-house library housekeeping, and financial and management software. Checklist of points to consider when acquiring software, 36…

This paper describes methodology used in compiling a list of candidate integrated library automation systems at a corporate technical library. Priorities for automation, identification of candidate systems, the filtering process, information for suppliers, software and hardware considerations, on-site evaluations, and final system selection are…

Defines criteria applicable to implementation of end-user online searching service in academic education library (ease of use, flexibility, administrative ease, security, compatibility with available equipment) and describes systems in four categories--software (front ends, downloaded subsets), gateways, user friendly vendors, and straight vendor…

Reports results of survey of 21 smaller to medium-sized (50,000-200,000 volumes) libraries which was conducted to determine factors used to make selection decisions in purchase of automated turnkey systems from established vendors. Factors examined include costs, software, hardware, and vendors for parts A (actual experience) and B (hypothetical…

Eight articles serve as an introduction to the growing presence of technology in libraries. Topics covered include going online with microcomputers, a selection guide to database management software, sensible groundrules for circulating software, selection of software for microcomputer centers, and setting standards for microcomputers in…

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…

This special supplement to "Library Journal" and "School Library Journal" includes articles on technological dependency, promise of computers for reluctant readers, copyright and database downloading, access to neighborhood of Mister Rogers, library acquisitions, circulating personal computers, "microcomputeritis,"…