Describes policies formulated by the Chinese government that use information technology to facilitate the development of scientific and technical information activities. Highlights include online information retrieval; the construction of databases, including Chinese language, numeric, and Chinese trade and technology databases; the development of…

Discusses Portuguese information sector (computers, libraries, specialized information services), which is described as very underdeveloped in comparison with other European countries. Highlights include computer applications in information services including national industrial database, INFOLNETI; access to international databases; official…

Use of online bibliographic databases in Mexico is provided through Servicio de Consulta a Bancos de Informacion, a public service that provides information retrieval, document delivery, translation, technical support, and training services. Technical infrastructure is based on a public packet-switching network and institutional users may receive…

Outlines history of the development of the Unesco Common Communication Format, which is designed to enable exchange of records (monographs, serials, journal articles, contributions in proceedings) between different agencies throughout the world. Highlights include definition of "exchange format," major technical features, and examples of…

In 1975, Unesco's Computerized Documentation System was combined with Integrated Set of Information Systems to create a comprehensive collection of programs for input, management, and output. The system is being used to support an Integrated Documentation Network within Unesco and micro and minicomputer versions are soon to be released.…

The British Council Global Cataloging Service was initiated in 1980 to reduce duplication of cataloging same titles in council libraries abroad. Each of 56 council libraries participating in system receives list of new accessions and updated microfiche catalog. Portugal was one of the first six countries chosen to test the system. (EJS)

Discusses developments in information technologies, their present state of application, and their general significance for the future of archives and records management systems. The likely impact of future technological developments is considered and the need for infrastructural standards, professional cooperation, and training is emphasized.…

Examines the difficulties faced by the implementors of information dissemination systems in developing nations and explores the possible use of optical data disk technologies to overcome them. A pilot project of the Pan American Health Organization for the production of a CD-ROM containing bibliographic references on public health is described.…

Outlines the background to an analysis of information management in the Public Service Commission and describes the implementation of proposals to create better information systems and improve libraries. Progress made by the newly established Research and Information Unit is noted, including a review of government libraries. (4 references) (EJS)

Review of background and justification of computerization project initiated to automate information work covers design concepts; implementation; and major characteristics of databases (local versions of BIOSIS and INSPEC, union catalog of monographs from Library of Congress/MARC records, union catalog of serials from International Serials Data…

Description of scientific research and scientific and technical information in Ghana highlights the role of the Ghana National Scientific and Technical Information Network (GHASTINET). Obstacles to the provision of adequate resources are discussed, including lack of funding and lack of trained library staff; and recommendations for improvements…

Describes the activities of a program designed to ensure cohesive development of UNESCO's work in the areas of scientific and technical information, documentation, libraries, and archives. The discussion covers the aims and objectives of the program, activities in various geographic areas, and an evaluation of the program. (CLB)

Discusses the need for access to scientific and technical information to attain national development goals in the Asia Pacific region, and outlines the objectives and program areas of a regional information network established by Unesco. Problems with the current system and future needs are identified. (CLB)