Discussion of factors which led Division of Library Automation, University of California, to configure its computing resources as they are now, notes distributed processing, centralized processing, machine architecture, selection of operating system, telecommunications software, software packages for online catalogs, and problems of overhead and…

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…

Five prominent consultants project technological advancements that, in some cases, will enhance current library systems, and in many cases will cause them to become obsolete. Major trends include advances in mainframe and microcomputing technology, development of inexpensive local area networks and telecommunications gateways, and the advent of…

Discusses the need to reassess the objectives of online public access catalogs and how those objectives might be met before costly investments are made in electronic versions of "other data" for online catalogs. Several objectives are outlined and their feasibility in the modern telecommunications environment is examined. (two references) (CLB)

Suggests that if librarians and libraries are to continue to fulfill their true tasks, they need to adapt to changes resulting from new technology and overcome the professional paralysis that has made most major libraries largely unusable. Problems of size, arrangement, and catalogs are identified as contributors to unusable library. (EJS)

Discusses factors to consider when estimating the number of public access terminals (PACs) or workstations needed in public and academic libraries for online catalogs, including building size and layout, physical facilities, resources available through the system, peripheral equipment, graphical user interfaces, remote users, system capacity, and…

Describes the use of LINKWAY, an IBM hypermedia software product, to provide extended access to library collections and services in the Indiana State University Library Automation Network (SULAN). Implications of providing extended easy access for library services, user instruction, collection development, and resource sharing are considered.…

Describes remote access to the Norwich University (Vermont) online library catalog. Promotion of this service and impact on library attendance, circulation, and interlibrary loan are addressed. Sample screen displays and tables presenting attendance and circulation statistics are included. (five references) (MES)

Describes the automation process in a library resources center in a small rural school district. Topics discussed include long-range planning; retrospective conversion for an online catalog; library automation software vendors; finances; training; time savings; CD-ROM products; telecomputing; computer literacy skills; professional development…