Based on a directive from the National Advisory Board of Canada, this paper provides a set of definitions and guidelines which Canadian libraries may choose to use in negotiating their contracts with database suppliers, vendors, and other information and bibliographic services. The report is intended to: (1) provide a basis for understanding and…

Compares database characteristics, access, display, editing, new records, hard copy products, hardware, and price of CD-ROM catalog production products from seven vendors: Gaylord Information Systems; General Research Corporation; The Library Corporation; OCLC; Solinet; Utlas; and the Western Library Network. (MES)

Because of data ownership questions raised by the interchange and sharing of machine readable bibliographic data, this paper was prepared for the Bibliographic and Communications Network Committee of the National Library Advisory Board. Background information and definitions are followed by a review of the legal aspects relating to property and…

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…

Discusses some of the factors that librarians should consider when planning to automate their libraries. These factors include vendor and systems selection; equipment; support; additional costs; and time. Seven tips to avoid common automation pitfalls are also given. (MAB)

The Retrospective Conversion (RECON) Working Task Force investigated the problems of converting retrospective catalog records to machine readable form. The major conclusions and recommendations of the Task Force cover five areas: the level of machine-readable records, conversion of other machine-readable data bases, a machine-readable National…

Policies and procedures are outlined for the Online Database Information Network (ODIN), a cooperative of libraries in south-central Pennsylvania, which was organized to improve library services through technology. The first section covers organization and goals, members, and responsibilities of the administrative council and libraries. Patrons…