A seminar on special libraries and their role in national development was held as a pre-session before the IFLA conference in 1986. Papers presented include: (1) "On the Problem of Document Delivery in the Field of Science and Technology in Asia" (Daxun He, People's Republic of China); (2) "The Planning and Development of Special…

Discusses the vendor's role in the library collection evaluation process. Vendor services are described, including catalogs, bibliographies, periodicals, and announcement services; the process required to produce a vendor publication is explained; and new online and CD-ROM collection assessment tools are described. (LRW)

Describes a prototype automated collection analysis system developed at OCLC that allows a library to compare its collection with both predefined and evaluator defined peer groups. Eight library applications for such comparisons are listed, and the system design goals and areas needing further development are discussed. (five references)…

Describes the role of automation in library acquisitions and serials departments in support of collection development. Highlights include workstations and expert systems; links to external databases; vendor services, including serials services and online review and selection of approval books; and automated access to collection development…

Discusses the acquisition of CD-ROM products for local area networks based on experiences at the Ohio State University libraries. Topics addressed include the historical development of CD-ROM acquisitions; database selection, including pricing and subscription options; the ordering process; and network licensing issues. (six references) (LRW)

Concludes from a review of 52 journal articles published in 1988 that periodic literature searches in circulation control are useful for identifying major trends, issues, and areas needing more serious study, and provide a basis for prediction. The issues discussed in the 1988 literature are summarized and areas for future study are suggested.…

Discusses the possible use of computer technology to enable collection development librarians to become active participants in an information network as librarians move from the concept of ownership of resources to access to information, and describes the functions and benefits of the implementation of a microcomputer-based selector's workstation.…

Discusses the acquisition of library materials in electronic formats, particularly CD-ROMs and machine-readable data files (MRDFs) in academic libraries, and considers possible problems that can result related to collection development policies. Cooperation in the selection process between subject collectors and technical experts is suggested.…

Reviews the problems of implementing information technology in developing countries and cites examples from African projects. The use of CD-ROM for access to information is examined, and experiences at the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia in introducing CD-ROM search services are described. (Contains five references.)…

Discusses converting a school library into an integrated, effective technology center, including planning for library automation; evaluating the current collection; CD-ROM purchasing decisions; and online catalog and circulation systems. A sidebar considers the politics of automation, including staff, administration, and school boards. (LRW)

Examines the shift from the vision of the virtual library to the digital library concept. Discusses attitudes toward electronic resources, CD-ROM technology, the appropriate use of electronic formats, differences in information needs, balance between print and electronic media in libraries, and collaborative resource development. A sidebar…

Describes the OCLC/AMIGOS Collection Analysis CD (CACD), a microcomputer-based tool for the evaluation and development of library collections. CACD applications are discussed, including preparation of statistical reports, accreditation and grant support, budget preparation, verification of collection development policy goals, and cooperative…

Issues in the management of library collections of electronically delivered information are discussed, focusing on the library at Troy State University (Alabama). Because of the library's selective depository status, expensive compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM) products are received, which the library could not normally afford. At the Troy…

Discussion of the information crisis focuses on possible new forms of library collections. Topics discussed include the rising quantity and costs of publications; improvements in access through new technologies; vendors' plans using electronic text; information flow; economics factors, including user fees; and the role of the commercial sector.…

Discusses the impact of computerization on humanists and libraries. Highlights include a lack of relevant databases; a reliance on original text; vocabulary and language issues; lack of time pressure; research style; attitudes of humanists toward technology; trends in electronic publishing; hypertext; collection development; electronic mail;…