Describes the development of a bibliographic database in Madagascar through a national inventory of scientific and technical literature. The roles of the Ministry of Scientific and Technological Research for Development (MRSTD) and its information service, CIDST, are described; database products are discussed; and future prospects are suggested.…

Describes the organization and automation plan of the Bibliotheque Nationale (Paris, France) that was begun in 1981. Highlights include the method of moving toward computerization; technical choices; the choosing procedure (pre-qualification, bench-mark test); short term and pilot operations; and preparation for the implementation of the…

Traces the development of computerization of library operations in Singapore from 1970 to 1989. Highlights include the role of the Ministry of Finance; institutional computerization; consortiums; the Singapore Integrated Library Automation Service (SILAS), a national network whose main function is to provide online shared cataloging; and access to…

Describes the establishment of an online retrieval system in a Turkish documentation center and the problems encountered, including lack of training for personnel; incompatible telecommunications channels; the need to execute searches using English; and unrealistic user expectations. (CLB)

This followup to a 1981 study presents descriptions of automated projects or activities in academic, public, and special libraries or information centers in the Greater Sao Paulo region that developed from 1981 through 1987. It is noted that an overall increase in the level of automation since 1981 has been observed. (four references) (Author/MAB)

Describes the effects of economic factors on information services in Mexico. Topics discussed include librarians' salaries; inadequate library budgets; acquisitions in academic libraries; the development of public libraries; library networks; national databases; microcomputers and library automation; library research; effects of devaluation; and…