Integrating machine-readable data files and microcomputer software (combined as MRDF) into traditional library and information services by incorporating a MARC format for them into the bibliographic networks will increase access to those materials. Standards for their bibliographic control have been developed and progress is being made in their…

Discusses the effects of microcomputers on online services and products from the perspectives of the major participants in the online industry--database creators and providers; service or network operators; libraries and information brokers; and end users. Ongoing developments and trends affecting participant groups are reviewed. Three references…

The role of networks in correcting inadequate bibliographic control for audiovisual materials is discussed, citing efforts of Project Media Base, National Information Center for Educational Media, Consortium of University Film Centers, National Library of Medicine, National Agricultural Library, National Film Board of Canada, and bibliographic…

Reviews programs aimed toward building of national database--RECON Working Task Force's Study of feasibility of converting the retrospective records of the Library of Congress, Cooperative MARC (COMARC), REMARC, and CONSER (continuing effort to build national database of serial records). Current efforts contributing to the evolving network are…

Surveys new developments in legal bibliographical documentation. Traces the development of database systems. Discusses the addition of personal computing to traditional information retrieval systems and the problems that this creates. Examines the most recent methods of information dissemination--the CD-ROM and Hypertext systems. (RW)

This exploration of ethical conflicts created by information technology and their impacts on teachers, scholars, and students begins by discussing the issue of fairness or ethics, with emphasis on what is fair or ethical in obtaining access to electronic information. Technological barriers involved in obtaining access to desired electronic…

Brief discussion of state-of-the-art of modeling complex information systems distinguishes between macrolevel and microlevel modeling of such systems. Network layout and hierarchical system models, simulation, information acquisition and dissemination, databases and information storage, and operating systems are described and assessed. Thirty-four…

Decision makers must address the issues of (1) just what are electronic communications? (2) how will they help me teach, administer, or survive? and (3) what will it cost in time and money? Electronic mail allows the sending of letters, memos, and messages to anyone who uses the same electronic mail system, and provides most of the options that…

Surveys the impact of computers and related technology on reference work in Australia highlighting online information retrieval and related databases; Australian Information Network; coverage of Australian material in local and foreign databases; Australian Bibliographic Network; electronic mail; Australian Consortium for Social and Political…

Technological developments of the past decade have increased the potential of distance learning and telecommunications to help rural schools overcome disadvantages of remoteness, geographic isolation, lack of specialized staff, and limited program offerings. Classroom-focused distance learning is distance insensitive and involves transmission of a…

Because of the drastic reduction in prices and the availability of versatile, inexpensive software, the home computer today is enjoying an exponential growth and may be effecting a fundamental change in mass communication and processes. Existing media suffer from many inherent limitations and offer unspecified audiences very low or no referability…

Examines factors which may affect the receptivity of librarians to the use of optical disk technologies, including hardware and software issues, the content of currently available databases, and the integration of optical technologies into existing library services. (CLB)

Discusses the need of developing countries to set up local databases and exchange information; outlines Unesco General Information Programme's role in this context; describes a specific Unesco program to help member states acquire and use microcomputer software; reviews criteria for software selection; and describes the program's implementation…

Discusses processes involved in development, operation, and utilization of bibliographic databases--design, data collection, processing, access, and use--and assesses their relevance to developing countries. Utilization of other countries' databases, use of services of organizatons in other countries, and participation in a cooperative system are…

Overview of the impact of information technology on libraries highlights turnkey vendors, bibliographic utilities, commercial suppliers of records, state and regional networks, computer-to-computer linkages, remote database searching, terminals and microcomputers, building local databases, delivery of information, digital telefacsimile,…