Comparison of conventional book stacks, moving aisle book stacks, and industrial storage techniques shows that the industrial technique is the least expensive to build, maintain, and operate. Characteristics of automated storage and retrieval systems are discussed, and formulas for calculating the size and costs of a library system are presented.…

Presents a model for the evaluation of database management systems software from the viewpoint of librarians and information specialists. The properties of data management systems, database management systems, and text retrieval systems are outlined and compared. (10 references) (CLB)

Examines library automation product introductions and conversions to new operating systems. Compares user satisfaction ratings of the following library software packages: DOS/Windows, UNIX, Macintosh, and DEC VAX/VMS. Software is rated according to documentation, service/support, training, product reliability, product capabilities, ease of use,…

This report addresses issues concerning the electronic protection of library materials, i.e., effectiveness, cost, how they work, which is best. Discussion covers determination of need for electronic security, how current systems work, cost comparison for systems from three vendors (Checkpoint, Knogo, 3M), and future developments. Thirteen sources…

Compares the operating costs of the CL Systems, Inc. Libs 100 automated circulation system with those of the manual system it replaced. The systems are described, costs defined, methods of data collection explained, and unit costs given. (Author)

Compares results of a 1998 survey concerning university library support staff perceptions and opinions about technological change to results of a similar survey administered to the same population in 1988. Offers the evolving perceptions, opinions, and suggestions of these library personnel as a resource for better planning of library automation…

The characteristics of paper or microform library materials, electronic publications, and online databases are compared in terms of equipment needs, cost effectiveness, budgeting, and satisfaction of users' needs. Suggestions for the effective integration of these materials are offered. (13 references) (CLB)

A study of computer facilities in British libraries highlighted the respective benefits and disadvantages of using the parent institution's central computer or using a dedicated minicomputer. The large computer's technical advantages include greater opportunities for sharing or buying operational software, and the availability of experienced…

Outlines the evaluation criteria used by the reference department at the Williams Library at the University of Mississippi in selecting databases and hardware used in CD-ROM workstations. The factors discussed include database coverage, costs, and security. (CLB)

Compares five public library early childhood centers with regard to origin and purpose; scope of collections; types of services; differences between these services and those traditionally offered. Factors to consider before starting center, those which contribute to success or failure, and competencies needed by staff are discussed. Sixteen…

Bivariate correlation analysis of data collected in a survey of document departments in 88 academic depository libraries on departmental staffing, budget, equipment, and types of publications shows no significant correlation between resources available to documents departments and those of the entire library. Fourteen references and the…

This statistical analysis report from the National Center for Education Statistics examines the current state of school libraries in the United States and how they have changed. The primary source of data in this report is the 1993-94 Library Survey, the first federally sponsored survey of library media centers and head librarians in elementary…

An undergraduate psychology course which relied on readings instead of textbooks and which required extensive notetaking was the environment for a study of microform utilization. The material for the course was made available in hardcopy and was also reduced 150x onto a 4 x 6 inch microfiche. Four microform readers were made available for…

Media programs were compared in 21 Utah high schools having student populations between 700 and 1,500. Differences in responses to a questionnaire administered by the Utah State Division of Instructional Media (USDIM) on the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the school media program were identified, and the levels of responses were compared…