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)

Provides background on networks and describes two national networks, the Internet and BITNET. Several related topics are also addressed: convergence of BITNET and the Internet; network decentralization; a proposed comprehensive national research and education network (NREN); libraries and the proposed network; and the library of the future. A…

Discusses problems that new information technologies have created for intellectual property concerns. Digital sampling devices used in music are described, downloading from large databases is discussed, the problems with derivative works are considered, outdated copyright laws are discussed, and ways that librarians can help protect intellectual…

The phrase, "digital divide," has been applied to the gap that exists in most countries between those with ready access to the tools of information and communication technologies and the knowledge that they provide access to, and those without such access or skills. This gap may be because of socio-economic, geographical, educational,…

Six library consultants address issues related to the future of online catalogs, including (1) types of material that will be accessible; (2) the role of the automated library; (3) evolving beyond the current objectives of library automation; (4) new technologies; and (5) the library profession's image of the future. (3 references) (MES)

Summarizes and discusses the highlights of the American Library Association's Library and Information Technology Association's (LITA) third national conference, which was held in Denver, Colorado, September 13-17, 1992. Included many sessions on the Internet implications--changes in library role, strategic planning, building relationships among…

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…

This paper on the 21st century information environment begins with a section that discusses the impact of e-commerce over the next ten years. The second section addresses government focus areas, including ensuring a telecommunications infrastructure, developing the IT (information technology) industry, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship,…

Examines the impact of electronic communications systems on library networking, using such examples as interlibrary loans and union catalogs to illustrate the effects of telecommunications on library services. The need for strict adherence to library standards in order to ensure continued library cooperation is discussed. (CLB)

This paper describes how Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are creating the knowledge society, which will impact on developing and transitional economies as well as developed nations. It argues that librarians have an important role to play in overcoming the digital divide and makes reference to the Global Knowledge Partnership.…

Arguing that the foundation of a free civilization is an informed citizenry, this ERIC digest discusses the new challenges faced by the government and libraries in the wake of the Information Age. As electronic technology has accelerated the production and transmission of information, it has become more difficult for the average citizen to access,…

Examines the impact of information technology, the economics of information, and changing patterns of scholarly communication on the role of the academic library. Libraries are called upon to cooperate in building a national information network for scholarly communications based on existing bibliographic utilities and the developing academic…

This book, in French and English, addresses how the school library of the future will be designed and what role it will play as a school facility within the educational system and in society as a whole. The following papers are included: (1) "Issues" (John Mayfield); (2) "Designing Schools for the Information Society: Libraries and…

Defines and discusses responsibilities of CD-ROM librarians, including external CD-ROM librarians located in academic computer centers, CD-ROM information technology department librarians, and electronic information librarians. Addresses reasons for the creation of these positions and examines current and future roles of these CD-ROM librarians in…

Presents an overview of information infrastructure development in Latvia and discusses the role of the Latvian Academic Library. Describes Latvia's telecommunications, information network, data transmission, and electronic information services and reviews the types of electronic information sources that have been created. (Author/JMV)