Briefly describes and discusses some of the emerging interactive, computerized information systems designed for the population at large. Developments mentioned include precoordination of indexes and videotex systems. (Author/JD)

Presents six principles for building and evaluating Web-based information retrieval interfaces: help the user develop an understanding of the interface and search process, judge the value of continuing search paths, and refine search queries or search topics; avoid complex navigation; make system actions explicit; and provide verbal labels…

SIRLS is a documentation center and computer-based information retrieval system. Services include computer-generated bibliographies and user-generated files. Upgrading of subject access to the collection through a thesaurus is planned, and online access is currently under revision. (Author/MBR)

The recipient of the 1987 Award of Merit recalls his initial work in information research, and discusses the current and future status of information science and the functions of information professionals. (CLB)

Reviews five areas in which computer graphics technology has been applied: animation, computer-aided design, home information systems, scientific uses, and geographic information systems. (FM)

Discussion of standards and protocols (set of rules by which two computers or other electronic devices can exchange data for same purpose) highlights history of standards and their interaction with the design and evolution of real computer networks. Topics noted include reference models; conformance, compatibility, and interoperability; and…

A listing of 42 operational and experimental online agricultural information systems in the United States is provided, noting system name, sponsoring organization, location, information and services provided, and key contact person and phone number. (EJS)

This chart profiles public/private controversies and the current status of these aspects of the information sector: electronic mail, sensing satellites, transborder data flows, government printing, trade information, merger of computers and communications, and small business administration. (SW)

Describes the Energy Information Administration (EIA) and the Technical Information Center (TIC), and lists databases accessible online to the Department of Energy and its contractors through DOE/RECON. (RAA)

The information needs of developing countries engaged in the process of industrilization are indicated, and some practical suggestions offered for developing a national industrial information center. (MBR)

Remarks regarding the current programs of information flow within the EOP, which include the creation of the White House Information Center, are prefaced by historical perspectives. (Author/MBR)

Trends in information exchange are discussed, including computer technologies becoming faster, smaller, and cheaper; human labor costs rising; electronic information exchange utilized in more phases of our daily lives; and the continuing increase in the volume of data. Implications for the information science profession are considered. (Author/MB…

Espouses two causes reflecting author's involvement with information science over past decade: design of transparent systems to allow potential of automated retrieval systems to be realized by end users; promotion of information science as respected field of endeavor and area worthy of research. Information retrieval and systems research are…

Traces the development of online library networks through published literature, noting the existence of conditions necessary for successful networking and characteristics of the literature, and includes a bibliography of works cited. (CWM)

Describes the goals and philosophy of the Research Libraries Group (RLG), and notes the services offered by the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), which uses Stanford University's BALLOTS program as the technological base of the bibliographic network. (CWM)