Outlines important considerations for school administrators deciding to begin office automation. (MD)

Evaluates the use of computerized cash registers in school lunch programs. They provide accurate records on food items sold (listing them by categories), can save time, and may perform many other sophisticated functions that improve efficiency and accountability. (MD)

Introduces the alarm system planning process and provides examples of approaches that have worked for school districts. Explains system elements, monitoring, the bidding process, and the importance of staff training. (MLF)

Describes the advantages of the development of open systems, i.e., a configuration which combines software and hardware from separate vendors into a single system, as a means of increasing the possible applications of library automation. (CLB)

This courseware evaluation rates the Concepts in Static Electricity program developed by Micro Learningware. (The program--not contained in this document--is a four-disk set covering the electroscope, charging by induction, grounding, and charging by conduction.) Part A describes the program in terms of subject area and hardware requirements…

Reasons for changing telephone systems at colleges and universities and the preparation and evaluation of requests for proposals (RFP) are discussed. The negotiation and monitoring of the contract are also addressed. It is noted that contracting for a new telecommunications system is extremely complex. Reasons for changing systems include cost…

Discussion of basic telecommunications concepts includes data terminal equipment, carrier equipment and data communications equipment. Guidelines offered for librarians planning the implementation of a telecommunications network address reliability and costs of equipment, requirements of the system, and ease of use of the system. (CLB)

In addition to legislative accessibility requirements, other security issues facing school administrators who select a security system include the following: access control; user friendliness; durability or serviceability; life safety precautions; possibility of vandalism, theft, and tampering; and key control. Offers steps to take in considering…

Describes the implementation of remote public access to the online catalog at the University of Calgary and discusses the technical considerations and difficulties encountered. The resulting cooperative efforts of the library and the university computing center are outlined, and several library service related issues are raised. (CLB)

Based on an unspecified number of teachers surveyed and onsite visits, agreement exists about some features of optimum facilities for secondary classes in electronic technology. All involved wanted more security, adequate wiring, protection for the equipment, and environmental control. (MLF)

Project CIRCUIT (Curriculum Improvement Resulting from Creative Utilization of Instructional Two-Way Television), a two-way interactive video and audio system serving the schools of Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, was evaluated in its second year through interviews with teachers, students, administrators, and the project director, and examination…

Several consultants address the development and use of RFPs (requests for proposals) in the library automation procurement process, including the cost of developing a request; the need to concentrate on overall goals, not just the document; and the usefulness of the request as one step in a broader planning process. (CLB)

Discusses the basic design and special features of robotic dialing systems that are programmed to make calls to parents of truant students and presents detailed information on seven currently available self-dialing attendance systems. (MBR)

The characteristics of paper or microform library materials, electronic publications, and online databases are compared in terms of equipment needs, cost effectiveness, budgeting, and satisfaction of users' needs. Suggestions for the effective integration of these materials are offered. (13 references) (CLB)

A series of articles reviews current trends in library furniture, including designs to accommodate computer equipment and workstations, children's furniture, shelving, and display aids. Design requirements and evaluation criteria are discussed, and a directory of furniture suppliers is provided. (CLB)