Discussion of the diffusion of information technology focuses on telecommunications in developing countries, television systems, and personal computers. Examples and statistics from the United States and other countries are provided. (eight references) (MES)

Examines the development of electronic books and traditional libraries in relation to the history of books and publishing. An ongoing project is described that is developing two forms of electronic books: hyper-books (built from paper books) and visual-books (built from electronic texts). (22 references) (EAM)

Proposes a personal information management technology called Memex-TV that might develop from advances in entertainment technology. Topics addressed include capabilities of the new system, system design, the scenario for development of Memex-TV as an entertainment technology spin-off, current entertainment technology trends, a typical evening with…

Discusses information retrieval, the effects of the Internet, and the changing role of information professionals based on experiences at JP Morgan. Topics include end-user relationships; training needs; the need for continual professional development; relationship to the information technology department; information management; and Intranet…

Discusses worldwide developments and trends in information technology. Highlights include online databases versus CD-ROMs; audiotex and voice processing; fax information delivery; networks and gateway services; possibilities in eastern Europe; national information policies; effects of the creation of a single European market; and the role of…

The Main Library at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (California) is actively challenging the traditional roles of libraries and information scientists. Innovative projects revolve around biomedical and environmental information services and envision new ways to serve information users. The library of the future will involve increased…

Explores the possible uses of microcomputers in school libraries, including library administration and technical processing, communications, curriculum related databases, and online bibliographic services. The impact on students is discussed in terms of computer literacy and the acquisition of information skills. (CLB)

Questions the wisdom of permitting visions of the electronic library to drive budgets and strategic planning. Social and economic realities limiting user access to information, new roles for librarians, and models that guide management of information resources and services by real librarians for real users are discussed. A proposed action agenda…

Discussion of distance learning and new information and communication technologies focuses on the role of the library. Highlights include the need for lifelong learning; online courses; adult training needs; new technologies in education and training contexts; digital libraries; acquiring, storing, finding, and filtering information; and user…

Discusses the basic functions of library systems and their knowledge transfer role in modern societies. Four types of library systems that could arise from new technologies are identified: polymedia, electronic, digital, and virtual. Each of these systems is described, their distinguishing features identified, and their implications discussed.…

Discussion of humanities research focuses on activities of the British Library Research and Development Department (BLRDD), particularly the Humanities Information Review Panel. The influence of technology on humanities research is considered, including word processing, greater availability of computer networks, and the online public access…

Examines the last 20 years of developments in the information profession, pinpoints the realities and possibilities new technologies represent, and discusses what technology offers the user. Cultural issues raised by the information age are discussed. Limits to free circulation of information are described, and the steps needed to remove obstacles…