The six articles comprising this special section on MELVYL, the University of California automated library system, discuss plans for the future, general recommendations for online catalog design, evaluation methods, evolution of computing resources, impact on the work of librarians, and academic goals and benefits. A chronology of MELVYL…

Describes new technology that adapts online catalogs into large-print, speaking catalogs and discusses a step-by-step approach for implementing the technology in public and academic libraries. Suggestions on developing a work team, descriptions of the technology and its installation, and approaches to teaching and assisting visually impaired…

Presents a content analysis of PUBYAC, an electronic discussion list for Children and Young Adult Services in Public Libraries. Information is provided on the different themes and topics that appear in the list, the lifespan and liveliness of specific discussions, percentage of active participants, and distribution of messages by participant. (AEF)

This case study of the collaborative design of an earth science World Wide Web page at Pennsylvania State University highlights the role of librarians. Discusses the original Web site and links, planning, the intended audience, and redesign and recommended changes; and considers the potential contributions of librarians. (LRW)

Reviews job advertisements published in "American Libraries" and "College and Research Libraries News" to assess the impact of the use of information technology in libraries on job requirements and qualifications for catalogers. Examines position titles, degree requirements, and required skills, and suggests implications for…

Offers 10 guidelines for librarians responsible for making decisions on whether to upgrade application software. Examines the Internet, client/server LAN (local area network) architecture, developments in contemporary stand-alone systems, and graphic user interfaces to determine their impact on the upgrading process. (AEF)

These three articles address issues in library cataloging that are affected by automation: (1) the impact of automation and bibliographic utilities on professional catalogers; (2) the effect of the LASS microcomputer software on the cost of authority work in cataloging at the University of Arizona; and (3) online subject heading and classification…

Describes the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI) professional-development program that is designed to provide institutional teams of librarians and information technologists with the tools they need to work collaboratively on projects of mutual interest and need. A workshop is described and future development is considered. (Author/LRW)

Describes a librarians' retreat and workshop held at Western Kentucky University that was designed to introduce the participants to the Internet. Topics addressed include planning for the retreat; objectives; classroom presentations; a hands-on session in a computing lab; and feedback from participant evaluations. (LRW)