Record-keeping systems (or volunteer management systems) were identified as a capacity-building tool for Extension master gardener volunteer (EMGV) programs. Not all states have or use such systems, and there are differences among existing systems. A survey was conducted in June 2015 to document and compare record-keeping systems for EMGV programs…

In today's world, information is increasingly created, processed, transmitted, and stored digitally. While the digital nature of information has brought enormous benefits, it has also created new vulnerabilities and attacks against data. Unlike physical documents, digitally stored information can be rapidly copied, erased, or modified. The…

Examines the strength of Data-Star, a European database service, in the following categories: company-specific information; market research and investment bank reports; international newspapers and journals; and legal aspects of trade with the European community. Five tables detailing findings are included, and pricing and special features are…

Guidelines for library automation include information on currently available microcomputer-based software products appropriate for small libraries and integrated systems for the larger libraries that can afford them. Costs, capabilities, functions, and vendor service are discussed, and a directory of vendors is included. (CDD)

Rutgers University Libraries are using a Microsoft Access database to track the purchase of books requested by teaching faculty for use in the Reserve Collection. Reports are generated which show what is purchased, how money was spent. Combined with circulation figures and LC Subject areas, the database provides documentation of library support of…

Searches conducted at the library of King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals Library (Saudi Arabia) were analyzed as to online versus CD-ROM, costs, academic department, user status, subject, databases accessed, and search strategy. A database management system was used to compile results, and statistics will aid in material selection and…

Describes a local automated bilingual circulation system using personal computers in a local area network that was developed at King Abdulaziz University (Saudi Arabia) for Arabic and English materials. Topics addressed include the system structure, hardware, major features, storage requirements, and costs. (nine references) (LRW)

The Data Quality Campaign (DQC) is a national, collaborative effort to encourage and support state policymakers to improve the collection, availability and use of high-quality education data and to implement state longitudinal data systems to improve student achievement. The campaign aims to provide tools and resources that will assist state…

Discussion of software evaluation for computer assisted instruction focuses on the Computer Courseware Evaluation Model (CCEM), developed at the University of South Florida. Criteria for reliability and validity are discussed, and areas of concern in software are addressed, including cost and presentation characteristics, instructional…

Describes features of existing software packages for circulation control (borrower and item files, data capture and verification, issue, return, renewal, loan conditions, reservations, overdues, updating, and management information), and serials control (ordering, recording receipt, reader access, binding and financial control, listings, and…

Discussion of digital imaging technology focuses on its potential use for preservation of library materials. Topics addressed include converting microfilm to digital; the high cost of conversion from paper or microfilm; quality; indexing; database management issues; incompatibility among imaging systems; longevity; cooperative pilot projects; and…

Describes GovDoc-L, a computer-based electronic mail information resource available to librarians and others interested in government information issues. Electronic mail network communication is discussed; the management software package called LISTSERV, which is used to maintain GovDoc-L, is explained; costs are considered; and subscribers are…

Highlighting the issues that confront small libraries who are exploring automation options, this report focuses on microcomputer-based automation systems for circulation and an online patron access catalog (OPAC). The information provided outlines some of the questions that librarians must ask themselves or vendors before they select a specific…

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

Reviews the Total Library Computerization program, which can be used to manage small to midsized libraries. Discusses costs; operating system requirements; security features; user-interface styles; and system modules including online cataloging, circulation, serials control, acquisitions, authorities control, and interlibrary loan. (Author/JMV)