The Ohio College Library Center (OCLC) is a regional library network. It provides catalog cards tailored to the requirements of its fifty-three member libraries via an on-line shared cataloging system. (2 references) (Author/RS)

Identifies the ability and potential for networking among libraries using the packaged "circulation systems" of various vendors. Cooperation and involvement of system vendors, librarians, bibliographic networks, and service bureaus are needed to ensure maximum benefit from these systems. (CWM)

This report outlines the development of the Ohio College Library Center (OCLC) and considers some basic problems in OCLC shared cataloging--e.g., the uneven quality of input cataloging and increasing number of duplicate records. Summaries of findings from an OCLC evaluative study and two surveys of shared cataloging are presented. The report…

Describes the Library Computer System, an online circulation system used in 22 Illinois libraries, that features complete holdings and circulation status information for serials and monographs. Problems in the network environment, plans for modification, and reasons why the system works are identified. References and two additional readings are…

Results of a survey of 20 networks distributing OCLC reveal patterns of service beyond OCLC and a commitment by the networks to automated library support systems, as well as brokerage of other automated services, revenue sources, staff size and growth, and future network planning. The questionnaire and four references are included. (Author/RAA)

This paper describes a decision making framework for library networking which can be used by individual libraries, groups of cooperating libraries, or centralized services to evaluate current operations and define alternative approaches to automation and networking. It is noted that networking has not yet achieved its full potential because of a…

The report is a verbatim record of the Colloquium on Library Networks. The topics covered include: (1) communications technology and how it might be utilized in library type applications; (2) shared resources via communications; (3) the telelecture (an amplified telephone call) for sharing human resources; (4) audio tapes and their use via remote…

The outstanding accomplishment reported in the fifth annual report of the Ohio College Library Center (OCLC) was the implementation, operation, and enhancement of the on-line union catalog and shared cataloging system. Another important development in the history of the Center was the decision by the Members to extend membership to include…

Description of the development of a computer-based resource-sharing program in Massachusetts highlights past planning efforts, development of philosophical basis of network, network activities (development and linking of bibliographic databases, document request and delivery procedures, computer literacy/training for librarians), and issues…

This narrative report relates the activities of the Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations using a Time-sharing System (BALLOTS) program at Stanford University for the original contract period and extensions, during which time the original single-user system was transformed into an automated network of libraries across the country.…

An outline for librarians who want to cooperatively plan to implement a shared circulation system, this guide employs a method of planning based on policy analysis. The stages of problem formulation, identification of objectives, perceptual activity, system design, information gathering, and evaluation are outlined. Although this guide contains…

Briefly describes a pilot project connecting some 150 schools and libraries around Lyon, France. The nature of the French educational system is outlined and the impact of the structure of that system on the organization of cooperative educational information services is reviewed. (JL)

This report reviews the goals, operating system, and development plans as of spring 1978 for the Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations using a Time-sharing System (BALLOTS) program, an online interactive library automation system developed by Stanford University in 1967. Five primary goals that will guide the operations and…

Because the cost of computers has decreased significantly in the last few years and their capabilities have increased significantly, a minicomputer is proposed as the front end processor for an automated library system of a medium sized library. The local library processor is to be connected to a larger computer which hosts the data base and…