Describes the design and operation of a system that resulted from a project undertaken by a small specialized library to provide self-help for patrons seeking reference assistance. The areas of information available on the system are described, including standard reference titles, library holdings and services, reserve readings, and placement…

This report on an IBM-assisted Application Transfer Team study by Clemson University Library to develop planning for and design of an integrated library automation system concentrates on the design of a serials subsystem. Data gathered from students, faculty, and library staff members through the structured interview technique focused on…

Discusses reasons for the development of an online catalog using computer output microfiche (COM) supplements to the card catalog in a university library, and outlines some of the principles used in designing the online system. Three references are cited. (CHC)

Describes the planning, development, implementation and impact of online information systems at three academic libraries. Some of the issues discussed include the campus computing environments, factors affecting the selection of databases and search systems, the impact of the system on library staff and users, and future considerations. (CLB)

Describes an electronic bulletin board called LIBRARY that was developed at Carnegie Mellon University to display the tables of contents of scholarly journals and timely postings of new monographs in the fields of computer science and robotics. Areas discussed include preparation involved in beginning the service, management and upkeep, feedback…

The six articles comprising this special section on MELVYL, the University of California automated library system, discuss plans for the future, general recommendations for online catalog design, evaluation methods, evolution of computing resources, impact on the work of librarians, and academic goals and benefits. A chronology of MELVYL…