Comments based on actual reference use of Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--formerly BALLOTS--in a library environment focus on RLIN files, interlibrary loan, search keys, and subject searches. This article updates a description of BALLOTS as it was developed by Stanford University to support cataloging and acquisitions (Online,…

Reviews Fast Interlibrary Loans and Statistics (FILLS), a library-specific microcomputer software package designed to enable processing of interlibrary loans in less than 50 percent of manual time. Examples of American Library Association Interlibrary Loan Form, outstanding loan report, periodical requests report, library reports (requests,…

Discusses the implementation of free online search services at the Mount Vernon Public Library for all registered borrowers of the county library system. Policy decisions and planning, operating procedures, publicity, and usage evaluation are noted. Retrieval procedures, search request forms, and sample searches are appended. (EJS)

Explanation of enhancements of a new version of the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--originally called BALLOTS-- focuses on reference applications of what is primarily a technical processing system, e.g., complementing searches, verification, union catalog, and interlibrary loan. Illustrative examples are provided. (EJS)

Describes telefacsimile (FAX) technology and discusses the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania project which is planning to implement a FAX network for member libraries. Guidelines for FAX use within Pennsylvania are included, and sidebar reviews recent developments in FAX add-ons, standalones, and applications. (MES)

Identifies the questions librarians should ask before adopting local online, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM and site database systems. User reactions to local online are discussed and the impact of such systems on reference services and the reference librarian's job content are examined. (CLB)

This second article in a series discusses the implementation and use of BASIS, a software management system developed and distributed by Batelle, for a database consisting of bibliographic book records and circulating book records. Field names and their content, creation and entry of a record, and sample records are included. (EJS)

Describes Kentucky libraries' participation in a pilot project allowing dial-up access to LOCIS (Library of Congress Information System). The two elements of LOCIS, SCORPIO (Subject-Content-Oriented-Retriever-for-Processing-Information Online) and MUMS (Multiple Use MARC System) are explained, and the use of LOCIS for reference, cataloging, and…

Description of the planning of a project designed to test the feasibility of distributing a statewide union catalog database on optical disk discusses the relationship of the project's goals to those of statewide library development; dealing with vendors in a volatile, high technology industry; and plans for testing and evaluation. (EM)

Describes the Kansas Interlibrary Communications Network (KICNET), a private electronic mail wide-area network (WAN) administered by the Kansas State Library that was developed to transmit interlibrary loan requests for high school, public, academic, and community college libraries. Topics discussed include software, costs for software and…

Eight articles describing online retrieval service use in schools include: an overview based on a 1986 survey; descriptions of DIALOG; Dow Jones News/Retrieval Service, and BRS services for schools, and Pennsylvania's online library network; online training for library media specialists; and a selected annotated bibliography of online in schools.…

The Draper Laboratory Library created the Draper Gopher in response to the following factors: library downsizing, the computer services department's changing role, customer needs, and developments in technology affecting the information environment. Results of its implementation include user-focused reference services; increased interlibrary loan…