Libraries are moving into an era that incorporates improvements of a library's existing databases, embraces the research results of the information-seeking process, and makes fundamental improvements by adding new databases such as WordFocus. These new systems should convert the frustrated user of today's online public access catalog (OPAC) into…

Describes the Maggie III automated library system, which supports a public access catalog, cataloging interface, bibliographic maintenance, circulation, electronic mail, and community information databases, with acquisitions and serials modules planned. Sidebars describe the community information database's structure, planned use of software by…

Describes the Network Library System, a collaborative development project undertaken by the University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Chicago libraries, which currently handles an online catalog and a circulation system. The conceptualization of the system, its development and performance, and subsequent changes due to available…

Describes Library 2000 at the Georgia Institute of Technology, which provides remote electronic access to a catalog of more then 350,000 books and documents, as well as access to the indexes to four extensive periodical databases. (MES)

Distinguishes between two basic types of interaction with online cataloging systems: preparation of bibliographic record offline by cataloger followed by online entry by clerk and interactive consultation by cataloger of online catalog while entering records. The Dobis/Libis system, authority files, code tables, command chaining, multidimensional…

This list of 126 software programs includes the title, description, producer or address to contact for additional information, system requirements, and cost. Programs listed are categorized by the following library functions: audiovisual catalog, audiovisual equipment inventory, bibliographies, catalog card printing, circulation and overdues,…

This information digest discusses current issues in the management of software collections and outlines several possible options for the cataloging and processing of microcomputer software and courseware. A statement of the problem indicates that treatment of microcomputer software is highly dependent on the type of library, size of the…

Five librarians considered authorities on quality cataloging in the OCLC Online Union Catalog were interviewed to obtain their views on the current level of quality control in the OCLC database, the responsibilities of OCLC and individual libraries in improving the quality of records, and the consequences of quality control problems. (CLB)

This article describes Kent State University School of Music's data base, Choralist, which provides computer-based retrieval of choral music selections by composer, style, historical period, subject matter, vocal groupings, and/or difficulty level. File construction is outlined and data entry forms, printout, and user evaluation questionnaire…

Traces the development of library networking over the last 20 years, and examines the current attitude toward an integrated national network. The political and economic problems of the Linked Systems Project are discussed, as well as issues relating to copyright. (10 references) (Author/CLB)

Examines the possibility of constructing an online international union catalog from machine readable entries originating in different countries and discusses use of MARC-compatible records as records that can be converted to MARC algorithmically. Sources of cataloging records, problems generated by merging, and resolution of problems are…

This review of the process of retrospective conversion (recon)--conversion of existing bibliographic records into machine-readable form--notes options and services (bibliographic utilities, commercial vendors); new technologies (microcomputer and optical-disc-based systems); collaboration and a coordinated recon strategy; cooperative efforts; and…

Describes an information storage and retrieval system for mainframe computer applications and its utilization as a corporate library catalog intended for end-user searching. The changeover from a previous system is discussed and current system features are evaluated. (Author/CLB)

Discusses design features of the Online Catalog of LS/2000, OCLC's enhanced version of Integrated Library System. This minicomputer-based system provides bibliographic file maintenance, circulation control, and online catalog searching. Examples of available displays--holdings, full MARC, work forms, keyword entry, index selection, brief citation,…

Discusses the effect of online library catalogs on when, how, and by whom authority control work is done, focusing on experiences at Ohio State University Libraries. Shifts include removal of authority work from automated cataloging procedures, separation of mechanical and intellectual tasks, unique headings and references, and original…