Describes minimal-level, or provisional, authority records that are constructed from headings in bibliographic records as part of a computer validation process. Two types of references that can be generated automatically for authority records are explained: (1) those based on other data in the bibliographic record, and (2) those derived from the…

Discusses the retrospective conversion of the cataloging records of Texas A & M University Library into machine-readable format, noting choice of alternatives to complete project, choice of vendor, in-house preparation, problems and procedures in execution of the project, and benefits gained. (EJS)

Describes the applications, management, and design techniques of a mechanized library system in use at the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Fourteen references are listed. (FM)

Describes the serials book catalog at the Iowa State University Library, one which provides access points generated automatically from the central serials database by a unique, locally written computer program. (FM)

Describes the Multimedia Visualizer, an online public access catalog (OPAC) that uses animated visualizations to make it more user friendly. Pictures of the system are shown that illustrate the interactive objects that patrons can access, including card catalog drawers, librarian desks, and bookshelves; and access to multimedia items is described.…

Reports on a forum held at Rutgers University that addressed issues involved in authority control in the online environment of libraries. Topics discussed include authority control to help the collocating functions of a library catalog; authority control in online systems; automated authority control and technical services; and users and thesaurus…

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 Apple-based MITINET system uses several forms of technology (Library of Congress MARC file in microfiche, microcomputers, COM vendor) to produce library database and COM catalog. Cost for MITINET software is based on number of branches or buildings performing conversion, and varies from $250 to $85 per building or branch. (EJS)

Discusses debates that still continue over the value of card catalogs versus online catalogs and other library technology. Highlights include user opinions and needs, libraries being ahead of users in the use of technology, the information age, the value of cataloging, full-text searching, meaning extraction, dataspaces, and the Internet. (LRW)

Outlines the basic database structure that should be in place in library automation systems. Suggests that any library automation system that includes a catalog should be using a database engine that uses the MARC record structure at its basic structure for record storage. Describes the elements of MARC 21 formats--the new standards for the…

The online catalog discussed in this report extends the present microfiche union catalog development by providing online access to bibliographic records for the holdings of the University of California Libraries. The specifications for the user interface through which the library patron communicates with the online systems to locate materials are…

Addresses the importance of item specific information to online public access catalog users and conversion planning. Options for attaching item specific information to bibliographic records are described: conversion via local system terminal, automatic item creation from OCLC bibliographic records, custom label programs. Examples of bar codes are…

Reviews MICRO-ISIS, a mini-micro version of a widely used software package developed by UNESCO for managing bibliographic information, and describes the design and implementation of a monograph catalog as a sample application. The value of this software for smaller libraries in developing countries is emphasized. (Author/LRW)

This tutorial on packet radio (communication system using radio and digital packet-switching technology) highlights radio transmission of data, brief history, special considerations in applying packet radio to library online catalogs, technology, defining protocol at physical and network levels, security, geographic coverage, and components. (A…

This set of summaries of problems and issues pertaining to the selection and implementation of automated integrated library information systems (AILS) deals with such topics as the nature of integrated library systems, the rationale for installing such systems, automated systems operations, available technology, and options for obtaining the…