This paper discusses the construction of the infrastructure for libraries' digital document telecommunications. The first section describes the topologies of the library LAN (Local Area Network) cabling system, including the main characteristics of the LAN and three classical topologies typically used with LANs, i.e., the bus, star, and ring…

Provides an introduction to CD-ROM technology, its advantages and disadvantages, and sources of information for locating and evaluating CD-ROMs. Types of CD-ROMs described include reference sources, utility tools for professionals, public access catalogs, directories, public domain and shareware, clip art, curriculum materials, and multimedia…

This paper discusses the development of information technology (IT) literacy among library staff at the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa). The first section describes the networked environment in South Africa. The second section summarizes the IT background of library staff and perceptions of IT literacy among staff. The third section…

Examines the different concepts and orientations of the two major approaches to the role of metadata in the digital library (library science-oriented bibliographic control and computer science-oriented data management), and proposes an integrated concept of metadata to facilitate the merging of these two approaches. Discusses ongoing efforts to…

Bibliographic Instruction librarians need a more balanced view of technology to present electronic resources in an appropriate context. To help library patrons see the benefits and drawbacks of using computer-based information sources, an assessment of librarians' attitudes, users' attitudes, and librarians' values is necessary. (Author/AEF)

Discusses the role of the Commission of the European Communities (CEC) in the development of the electronic information industry in Europe. Activities aimed at libraries are described; the IMPACT program for developing the market for information services is explained; and problems of multilingualism are addressed. (LRW)

This paper provides an overview of thin-client/server computing in higher education. Thin-clients are like PCs in appearance, but they do not house hard drives or localized operating systems and cannot function without being connected to a server. Two types of thin-clients are described: the Network Computer (NC) and the Windows Terminal (WT).…

From an organizational approach to virtual or digital libraries (V/DL), this study places V/DL in the context of the academic library, focusing on relevant opinions of library heads. Findings suggest that the library heads typically understand V/DL as digital materials, are mainly supportive of V/DL understood in this way, and demonstrate the…

A simplified account of an extensive library automation and networking project that the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation initiated and funded in the Czech and Slovak republics is provided in this paper. The proposal to establish "The Czech and Slovak Library Information Network" (CASLIN) commenced in January 1993. Storage, document…

This paper discusses changes in services, technology, and organization as libraries prepare to enter the "network-centric library world." Part 1 addresses the transition from the analog era to the digital age, and the convergence of libraries and education, including opportunities for library leadership in Internet access, digital…

Highlights major trends in information technology and speculates on their impact for library services in the future. Bibliographic accessibility and the role of the librarian in information management in tomorrow's libraries are discussed. (EM)

This paper discusses bibliographic control in Thailand. The first section provides background, beginning with the compilation of the "Catalog of the Books of the Royal Vijirajan Library" in 1892; several papers on the history of Thailand's bibliographic control are listed. Recent changes due to the widespread use of information…

This paper discusses the evolution of national bibliographies. The first section provides an overview of the development over the last 30 years of national bibliographies in the context of universal bibliographic control. The second section describes the following major functions of national bibliographies: (1) national bibliographies are set out…

This paper discusses the role information can play in the development of African countries in the 21st century. It stresses that development information can only be guaranteed when libraries in Africa computerize their systems, form networks for resource sharing, and take advantage of the benefits of information technology (IT), especially CD-ROM…

Presents a library automation vendor's perspective on networking based on activities at Ameritech Information Systems. Topics discussed include the information explosion; information technology; user expectations and needs; remote access; the library of the future; systems integration; ownership versus access; copyright laws; and the role of the…