Offers suggestions for etiquette or rules of conduct when using electronic mail systems (EMS) based on experience utilizing EMS for intraorganizational communication in Carnegie-Mellon University Libraries. Transfer of information, democratization of workplace, antisocial abuse, access and learning, privacy, accounts, salutations and conclusions,…

Looks back at the innovations/tribulations that went into the making of Merit Network, Inc., Michigan's pioneering Internet provider. Today, Merit is serving as the GigaPoP organization for its two current Internet2 members, Michigan State University and University of Michigan, and will provision a vBNS connection for Wayne State University.…

This guide to functions to consider in selecting an academic library automation system to operate in a networked environment covers (1) the current academic networking environment; (2) library automation hardware and software platforms; (3) user interface requirements for public access; and (4) security and authentication. (10 references) (MES)

Reviews the history of the network that supports the MELVYL online union catalog, describes current technological and policy issues, and discusses the role the network plays in integrating local automation, the union catalog, access to resource databases, and other initiatives. Sidebars by Mark Needleman discuss the TCP/IP protocol suite, internet…

Describes the security issues Bluestem, a Web authentication and access control system under development at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, is designed to resolve. Provides an overview of how Bluestem works and details how Bluestem is currently being used to control end-user access to bibliographic resources licensed by the…

The first of two articles describing the University of Michigan's experiences in installing an on-premise telecommunications system covers: (1) the physical, historical, and cultural context; (2) planning for the new system; (3) voice and data strategies of the system; (4) switching equipment and transmission media; and (5) financing and rates.…

Discussion among teams of administrators from eight major universities concluded that new opportunities exist for the publication, acquisition, and distribution of knowledge; libraries can add to their traditional resources and services by utilizing new technology; and librarians will need to add new skills to ensure important roles in the future.…

Describes Carnegie-Mellon University Libraries' utilization of three software packages resident on the University's central computers: text editing, text formatting, and electronic mail. Advantages of utilizing central computing resources, introduction of and training in computing systems within libraries, specific applications, and advantages and…

This overview of the Research Libraries Group (RLG) discusses historical background, collaboration, new needs and expectations, the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), the CitaDel service, the ARIEL service, the Eureka service, the Zephyr server, and JACKPHY-Plus Script Development, and preservation. (JLB)

Provides evaluation of three components of Faxon's LINX On-Line Remote Access Serials Management System in use at Brandeis University: Datalinx, online component which provides display-only access to Faxon's files, plus electronic mail and computer-based instruction functions; SC-10, online component encompassing serials check-in and claiming; new…

Describes the creation of the Knowledge Navigation Center (KNC) in the Graduate Library at University of Michigan. The planning group identified five main specialty areas: GIS; imaging and multimedia; text; distance learning/interactive technologies; and Internet tools. (Author/AEF)

Describes the Bradley Library Information Support System (BLISS), a comprehensive local area network designed to provide library users with electronic information access and management services to support Bradley University (Illinois). System architecture is explained; and six sidebars provide more detailed information on various services, the…

Describes information technology programs in Maryland, including the Sailor Project, that created a statewide telecommunications network providing Internet access without charge from libraries, homes, offices, schools, and shopping malls; University of Maryland initiatives; distance learning in higher education; and a project that allows worldwide…

Describes the federal College Library Technology and Cooperation Grants program designed to assist college and university libraries in acquiring technological equipment and conducting research in information technology. Topics addressed include history, structure/process, reviewers, criteria, and trends. (JLB)

Reviews recent telecommunications activities in Maine. Highlights include state legislation that addresses regulatory developments; public utilities; public access through libraries; education networks, including elementary and secondary schools and higher education; Internet access; economic and community development; and the governor's…