Presents a practical guide for the implementation of a turnkey circulation system for those contemplating purchase of an online system. Included is advice on staff planning and bibliographic and patron file conversion. Weaknesses and strengths of the automated system are summarized. (Author/RAA)

The development of a terminal and the adaptation of bar-coded labels for the University of Chicago on-line circulation system are described. (PF)

This issue provides information on products and services for libraries from companies in North America, including a directory of products and services; a directory of suppliers; a shop-at-home supplier locator, organized by state or region; and a manufacturer's catalog and product showcase of paid advertisements. (LRW)

Addresses problems encountered by a library when considering, selecting, and contracting for an automated library system. Topics covered include information needed by the vendor (size of database, volume of transactions, and acceptable response times), reasons why libraries and vendors have failed, and possible solutions. Six sources are given.…

This paper describes the development of an automated authority control system for the Genealogical Society of Utah, which has large holdings of microfilmed records from many nations, including civil registration, parish registers, local records, and census records. The key function of the library is the identification of people. From the…

The 1980s offer libraries numerous automated acquisitions alternatives, including turnkey systems from circulation system vendors and the acquisition subsystems of the bibliographic utilities. Integration of systems from several sources poses the principal problem. (Author/RAA)

Presents an overview of automated library acquisitions with emphasis on vendor developed systems. The article provides definitions, a description of an ideal system, a selection procedure for optimal purchasing decisions, and predictions for the future. An evaluation sheet and checklist are included. (RAA)

Describes the latest developments in automated circulation systems and the turnkey system in particular. Trends include greater functional integration, improved user interfaces, and shared facilities. The role of bibliographic utilities is briefly explored. (Author/RAA)

Lists library-related computer products and services in five sections: (1) Products and Services, including hardware and supplies, software, and services; (2) Vendor Product/Service Listing, which shows the products and services offered by each vendor; (3) Product Names; (4) Vendors, Producers, and Distributors, including addresses and phone…

Several online vendors address the issue of RFPs (requests for proposals) for library systems, discussing the documents' style, technical standards, library expectations, liabilities associated with using this procedure, factors in the decision to bid, and the need for a standardized document and national clearinghouse. (CLB)

Discussion of the maintenance of both the software and hardware in an automated library system highlights maintenance by the vendor, contracts and costs, the maintenance log, downtime, and planning for trouble. (EJS)

This paper discusses the current resurgence of interest in authority files and describes the automated authority files of the National Library of Canada. Factors contributing to this interest in such files include cooperative programs between libraries, the development of international standards, and the impact of computer technology and…

This report for an automated circulation control system to replace the currently used automated off-line batch system discusses the general requirements for the requested system, the equipment needed, the planned uses and design of the proposed system, its utilization, its expected benefits, its estimated costs, the alternatives considered, and…

This examination of the acquisitions services offered by networks, the not-for-profit bibliographic services, stresses significant characteristics inherent in their structure and functions, and contrasts advantages and disadvantages for individual libraries. (Author/RAA)

Discusses the state of library automation and the benefits and dilemmas of available operating systems. Presents an overview of six vendors selling online library systems (Ameritech, Endeavor, Data Research Associates, Sirsi, Innovative Interfaces, and Ex Libris). Provides sales figures based on the "Library Journal" articles published during the…