Describes the services of Teltech, Inc., which mimic the desirable attributes of artificial intelligence and expert systems via a "database" of 5,000 experts in technical areas and interactive literature searches executed by staff. Advantages and shortcomings of the network are exemplified by sample searches. Several sample menus and…

Briefly describes new developments pertaining to the EURONET/DIANE information network, the growth of telecommunications in the United Kingdom, education and training in information science in Europe, the current state of European videotex systems, EUSIDIC's document delivery program, and international data flow. (JL)

This overview of the current users, common features, functions, and applications of online electronic information exchange systems, includes a discussion of both the benefits of such systems, and the problems they are likely to create. (RBF)

Presents four considerations in the development of a gopher server: organization, promotion, training, and maintenance. Economic issues such as development and maintenance costs relating to staff and equipment are also discussed. Benefits from the development of a gopher include access to external information resources and enhanced access to local…

Libraries in Canada can now access the Telenet and Tymnet networks through a Canadian telecommunications network called DATAPAC. One library's trial use of DATAPAC, USER/network interaction, system messages and meanings, communications costs, impact on online searching in Canada, and the Canadian data bases which will now be accessible to users in…

Reports on educational information services developed by the Bibliographic Retrieval Services (BRS)/Education Service Group (ESG): School Practices Information Network (SPIN) and School Practices Information File (SPIF). Background and history of the services, a description of each service, and illustrative material are provided. (EJS)

Illustrates the special considerations of using European search systems from North America: steps in establishing a telephone link with the European Space Agency's system, lack of availability to North Americans of some European databases through this system, user reaction, and costs. Brief descriptions of some European databases and a connect…

Presents 10 tips on managing Internet searches; highlights include area and level of expertise, request forms, lay terms for casual users, realistic times for retrieving results, a systematic approach, the operating platform and tools, a file of servers' and patrons' addresses, bookmarks and home pages, shortcuts, and the Internet Hunt. (AEF)

Explains how the Usenet network's dissemination model differs from electronic-mail-based discussion groups in terms of how users can choose which information best fits their needs. Various methods of limiting excessive numbers of unwanted messages are explained. (EAM)

Discusses advances in CD-ROM technology. Topics addressed include high performance drives; decreases in prices; CD-ROM marketing, including upgrade kits; and how to keep up with current CD-ROM products and technology, including professional journals and electronic sources. (LRW)

Provides brief reviews of the sites for several online services of the World Wide Web; the Web as a marketing tool and other aspects of interest to information professionals are highlighted. A sidebar presents information on accessing Internet locations, graphics, online forms, Telnet, saving, printing, mailing, and searching. (AEF)

Business Computer Network (BCN) employs automatic calling and logon, multiple database access, disk search capture, and search assistance interfaces to provide single access to 15 online services. Telecommunications software (SuperScout) used to reach BCN and participating online services offers storage and message options and is accompanied by…

The OnTyme electronic mail service made available to library and information community by CLASS (a cooperative library services agency) is discussed as example of computer-based message system. Use of system by Dynamic Services to support internal and external communications needs and receive orders is highlighted. Examples of online sessions are…

Discusses microcomputer interfacing systems which accept full MARC record from bibliographic utility, reformat and transform it into local library computer system format; illustrates how the TPS-400 interface works; outlines criteria for interface selection; indicates installation decisions; and notes limitation problems and benefits. Four…

Describes two electronic conferences (e-conferences) available on the Internet: e-mail-based discussion groups and Usenet news groups. Presents tips to help users of e-conferences increase the benefits of knowledge-sharing via these conferences. Sidebars present the largest library-related e-conferences, e-conferences gatewayed to Usenet, and an…