Reviews the use of CD-ROM technology in libraries. Topics addressed include personal computers and CD-ROM; possible futures of CD-ROM technology; the organization of CD-ROMs; workstations; help for users; remote access; delivery systems; and providing reference services to CD-ROM users. (Contains nine references.) (LRW)

This discussion of information technology and its impact on library operations and services emphasizes the development of microcomputer and laser optical disc technologies. Libraries' earlier responses to bibliographic utilities, online databases, and online public access catalogs are described, and future directions for library services are…

Following an introduction to this special issue on library workstations, six articles discuss: (1) characteristics of workstation technology; (2) what is available in the library workstation marketplace; (3) potential of the Macintosh in the library workstation market; (4) local area networks; (5) networking on campus; and (6) assembling your own…

Discusses optical character recognition (OCR) for use with MS-DOS microcomputers. Cost effectiveness is considered, three types of software approaches to character recognition are explained, hardware and operation requirements are described, possible library applications are discussed, future OCR developments are suggested, and a list of OCR…

Discusses the uses of microcomputers in libraries. Highlights include selecting hardware and software; providing microcomputers for public use; using microcomputers to access larger systems; the use of general purpose software, including desktop publishing; computer networks; library specific software; and the future of microcomputers in…

The second of two articles discusses topics relating to the development of CD-ROM technology: (1) new applications; (2) the image of what CD-ROM will become; (3) the properties of information, including timeliness, risk, and the relationship between message and medium; and (4) growth issues such as production, pricing, and user training and…

Describes the functions and characteristics of the microcomputer and discusses library applications including cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, serials control, reference and database systems, administration, current and future trends, and computers as media. Twenty references are listed. (CHC)

Contributed by librarians from public, academic, school, and special libraries, the 17 essays in this collection describe ways in which the Apple Macintosh is used in their libraries: (1) "Workstations and the Apple Macintosh" (Edward J. Valauskas); (2) "The Macintosh Experience at Chesapeake College" (Liz Cooper); (3)…

Presents results of a statistical analysis of information on the approximately 1,500 software packages currently contained in MicroUse, a database directory for software with library applications. These results include information on software types and their availability, costs, vendors/producers of microcomputer-based software, and…

Discusses new hardware and software developments for microcomputers and considers strategies for future library microcomputing. Topics discussed include developments with Macintosh computers; the importance of local area networks (LANs); upgrading options for hardware; operating system upgrades; dynamic data exchange (DDE); microcomputer…

Describes Vannevar Bush's vision of memex, a mechanized private file and library, and suggests that the ability of users to download library online catalogs and manage the information on personal computers will realize Bush's vision. Current software packages are described, and the possible implications for libraries are explored. (CLB)

Reviews developments in the use of computer systems in libraries in Great Britain, North America, and other countries from 1966 to date. Highlights include MARC developments, cooperative cataloging services, use of microcomputers and minicomputers, turnkey systems, and online public access catalogs; 102 references are provided. (Author/LRW)

This sixth article in a series discusses planning for the installation and implementation of automated systems in the library, workstation design and location, scheduling of software implementation, security, data input, staff and reader training, job design, impact of automation on library procedures, evaluation of system performance, and future…

Examines trends in the design of database management systems for microcomputers and predicts developments that may occur in the next decade. Possible developments are discussed in the areas of user interfaces, database programing, library systems, the use of MARC data, CD-ROM applications, artificial intelligence features, HyperCard, and…

Describes the design and development of the Mercury Electronic Library Project at Carnegie Mellon University that resulted in a library information system that provides access to the library's online catalog as well as to other databases. The distributed architecture of the system is explained, and future plans are discussed. (two references) (LRW)