Provides a map representing automated library networks in North America with a list of their acronyms and abbreviations. (CWM)

Examines two classes of technical problems--communication and integration of applications--occurring in a national library network designed to facilitate information transfer directly among hosts (service providers) and, indirectly, among hosts and users. (CWM)

Three aspects of a library network are discussed: (1) legal structure, (2) membership, and (3) governance. An ideal network organization, from a legal viewpoint, is outlined. Also discussed are these types of network organizational structures: government networks, quasi-government networks, nonprofit membership corporations, and unincorporated…

Notes the importance of equal access to information for all citizens through library networks and defines the role of government in the establishment of a national network system. (CWM)

Views research libraries as posing unique problems for a governance structure because of their ready access to private funding and relative immunity from legislative control. Cited as functions of a governance structure are establishment of policy and development of network standards. (SW)

Summarizes results of a project which analyzed data for decisions concerning linking; i.e., whether and how to link utilities in order to pool bibliographic resources. Benefits and problems of links for cataloging, interlibrary loan, and online reference are discussed. A cost-revenue model which analyzes alternatives for linking is presented. (SW)

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)

Traces the development of online library networks through published literature, noting the existence of conditions necessary for successful networking and characteristics of the literature, and includes a bibliography of works cited. (CWM)

Describes the goals and philosophy of the Research Libraries Group (RLG), and notes the services offered by the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), which uses Stanford University's BALLOTS program as the technological base of the bibliographic network. (CWM)

As the use of information and the means to find it change due to computer and communication network technology and the advancement of online computer searching, abstracting and indexing services must decide which information services they intend to supply. (CWM)

Discusses planning concerns related to governance of a nationwide bibliographic network, such as the Bibliographic Service Development Program sponsored by the Council on Library Resources. Other issues covered are the roles of governance, creation of standards, records exchange, authority control, and identification of potential users. (SW)

Assesses the status of the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC), focusing on its membership, financial problems, new headquarters, terminal equipment, Videotex possibilities, and relationship with regional library networks. (EJS)

Identifies technological issues of nationwide networking, including computer processing, data storage and communication, software, data entry, and standards. Emphasized in a forecast of networking trends in the 1980s is the need for coordination of a central managing organization with the autonomous local libraries. (SW)

Describes recent research by the authors who received the 1990 American Society for Information Science (ASIS) Research Award. Three main areas of studies are described: (1) evaluation measures, methods, and models; (2) planning and evaluation studies involving individual libraries and library systems; and (3) planning and evaluation of library…

Follow-up on the 1991 White House Conference on Library and Information Services (WHCLIS) presents President Bush's message to the U.S. Congress on the conference, together with a discussion of WHCLIS resolutions relevant to the concerns of the American Society for Information Science (ASIS). Major concerns are identified as networking,…