This essay lists elements of a public service microcomputer project--needs, clientele or population, skill level, type of service, type of equipment, site or location--and identifies a number of options under each heading. Examples illustrating how librarians can use the model in planning a service are noted. (EJS)

Responses to librarians' questions about library microcomputers cover simple applications to be used by staff with little experience, minimizing risk factor, choosing a microcomputer, hardware obsolescence, uses of mainframes and minicomputers, capacity planning for microcomputers, security of library's data, copyrighted software, and future use…

Notes that few school districts are taking advantage of the application of computer technology to library media services. Suggests possible applications. (FL)

Addresses how libraries can prepare for Y2K problems. Discusses technology that might be affected and equipment that should be examined, difficulty of fixing noncompliant hardware and software, identifying problem areas and developing solutions, and dealing with vendors. Includes a checklist of necessary preparations. (AEF)

This book is the final report of a two year research project. It offers a thorough discussion of the potentialities and limitations of computers for library application. A general treatment is presented of the whole library as it may be in the future. Emphasis is given to the usefulness of the computer as a device for ease of transmission of…

This annual review article examines the progress made and pitfalls encountered by the automated library system marketplace during calendar year 1984. Total marketplace activity is represented by events that occurred in four segments: turnkey systems, library-developed software, software designed to run on microcomputers, and production of…

This guide was developed as a "starter kit" for those beginning the process of selecting and implementing computer-based library systems. The main section outlines a process for libraries to use in system selection, including (1) initial considerations; (2) project planning and management; (3) analyzing the alternatives; (4) the…

This collection of materials on small computer applications in research libraries, assembled by the Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), includes documents from ARL and non-ARL libraries illustrating local, commercial, and word processing computer applications. Among the contents of the…

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…

Describes how a library, with an MCI Corporation grant, approached the process of setting up computers for the visually impaired. Discusses preparations, which included hiring a visually-impaired user as a consultant and contacting the VIP (Visually Impaired Persons) group; equipment; problems with the graphical user interface; and training.…

The WEBrary(R) databases at the Morton Grove Public Library (Illinois) provide patron-accessible searchable databases, easily available over the library's Web site. Database offerings include the locally maintained Song Collection Index, Obituary Index, Continuations Listings, On-Order files, topical and personalized New Acquisitions files, and…

This booklet providing information on school library and media programs in 28 South Carolina schools focuses on programs, facilities, materials, flexible scheduling, use of computers, and production. Schools included were suggested by library/media consultants from the South Carolina State Department of Education. Programs are listed for…

An overview of materials scheduling, this write-up outlines system components, standardization, costs, limitations, and expansion capabilities of the New York Statewide Film Library Network. Interacting components include research staff; materials libraries; hardware; input/output (operation modes, input format conventions, transaction codes);…

Using an IBM System/360 Model 50 computer, the New York Statewide Film Library Network schedules film use, reports on materials handling and statistics, and provides for interlibrary loan of films. Communications between the film libraries and the computer are maintained by Teletype model 33 ASR Teletypewriter terminals operating on TWX…

Sixteen papers are presented which focus on microforms and data processing in library and information centers. Articles include discussions of cost analysis, decision making and program planning, library automation, information retrieval, indexing, cataloging, and computer services for libraries. (CH)