Integrating machine-readable data files and microcomputer software (combined as MRDF) into traditional library and information services by incorporating a MARC format for them into the bibliographic networks will increase access to those materials. Standards for their bibliographic control have been developed and progress is being made in their…

Reviews the development of secondary information services in the arts and humanities, discusses the services currently provided and the usage levels for those services, outlines some of the problems associated with online databases in the humanities, and considers some probable future developments. A 5-item reference list is included. (JL)

Suggests standards designed to guide potential database users through a systematic evaluation process to choose database appropriate for particular application. Comparison standards are provided for database content (scope, completeness, source coverage, selection/evaluation, redundancy, references); database systems (documentation, accessibility,…

Outlines history of the development of the Unesco Common Communication Format, which is designed to enable exchange of records (monographs, serials, journal articles, contributions in proceedings) between different agencies throughout the world. Highlights include definition of "exchange format," major technical features, and examples of…

Discusses development of digital optical discs and considers both positive and negative features of CD-ROM for information services. Topics discussed include microcomputer-based databases; cost effectiveness; online searching by users; new user populations; the status of information specialists; lack of standards; and future possibilities. (Five…

The two purposes of this report are to present concrete proposals related to the need for the National Library of Canada to facilitate the development of nationwide bibliographic and associated communications networks, and to outline the relevant network concepts assumed in framing the nine recommendations and the related implementation proposals…

This paper explores general issues surrounding the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database--its content, operations, and possible "futures." It addresses specific questions regarding restrictions on content and, in particular, the exclusion from the database of a range of non-print media; and the exclusion of the…

This UNISIST publication discusses issues related to the compatibility and standardization of bibliograpic records, index languages, software, hardware, and other information systems and services. Following an executive summary, definitions of terms, and other introductory material, existing information systems with common standards are briefly…

Examines the pattern and distribution of secondary information systems and services in China. Topics include the role of government, government policies and relevant standards, distribution of discipline-oriented bibliographies and indexes, the change from printed materials to databases, and the transition to a market economy. (Author/LRW)

The National Library of Portugal undertook a leadership role in the development of the Portuguese Bibliographic database (PORBASE). The National Library defined cataloging standards and circulated them to Portuguese libraries to create a national catalog. PORBASE is a work in progress with ongoing technical projects and collaboration in the…