Describes the experiences of four library automation projects that involved multitype library networks. Areas discussed include forces acting on libraries, the growth and development of the library marketplace, the increasing complexity and interrelationships of automated systems and the profound impact of such systems on libraries. (CLB)

Discussion of format changes in libraries focuses on managing change and phasing out older formats. Standardization is addressed, and five considerations regarding format shifts are examined: aesthetics, audience, compatibility, costs, and copyright. (MES)

Describes telefacsimile (FAX) technology and discusses the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania project which is planning to implement a FAX network for member libraries. Guidelines for FAX use within Pennsylvania are included, and sidebar reviews recent developments in FAX add-ons, standalones, and applications. (MES)

Reviews the adoption of a three-part program for statewide library automation and the appointment of planning committees by the Board of Regents of the New York State Department of Education. The discussion addresses the recommendations of the committees covering general issues, databases, linking, training and consulting, and operational…

The first of two articles on MELVYL, the University of California's online library system, discusses the next generation of public access information retrieval systems for research libraries based on lessons learned from 10 years of MELVYL. The second article considers MELVYL in the larger context of the University of California's information…

This two-page digest briefly outlines some of the technological trends in updating a library, and briefly discusses the administrative issues and strategies involved. It begins by describing the wholly integrated information environment, which would include: (1) public-access personal and professional communications networks; (2) information…

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…

Describes the current state of automation at academic libraries, outlines issues that face library planners today, and emphasizes the use of technologies such as nationwide computer networks to improve access to information. The University of California's MELVYL system is described, and the use of online catalogs is discussed. (LRW)

Reports results of a survey of 17 public library systems on their use of electronic mail, desktop publishing, local area networks, and telefacsimile. Two sidebars present steps for the deployment of emerging technologies and the addresses for several vendors of telefacsimile equipment. (nine references) (MES)

Reviews the literature on outcome-based education (OBE) and discusses its application in library instruction and reference service, particularly in the introduction of new information technologies. Suggests that an OBE approach in the planning stage can help determine if an information resource is beneficial to the users. (Author/LRW)

This book contains presentations from the 17th annual Computers in Libraries Conference. Topics covered include: chatting with a librarian; verbots for library Web sites; collaborative IT (Information Technology) planning at Montgomery County Public Library (Maryland); designing a local government taxonomy; Weblogs; new roles for librarians in…

The Council on Library Resources, which for many years has identified library issues and developed new approaches to library operations, is interested in addressing the challenges public libraries face in an era of information revolution. Through a grant from the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, the Council has established a program to study innovation…

This technical report presents recommendations and plans which are the result of a mission undertaken as part of a project to promote a scientific and technological information service and establish a popular science resource center in Korea. The mission's main emphasis was to help Korean authorities and the United Nations Development Programme…

The Library of Congress asked the Computer Science and Telecommunications Board (CSTB) of the National Academies to conduct a study to provide strategic advice concerning the information technology path that the Library of Congress should traverse over the coming decade. The Committee on an Information Technology Strategy for the Library of…

Addresses the necessity of incorporating new computer technologies into school library resource centers and notes some administrative challenges. An extensive checklist is provided for assessing equipment and furniture needs, physical facilities, and rewiring needs. A glossary of 20 terms and 11 additional resources is included. (AEF)