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…

This essay examines ways in which microcomputers are currently used in libraries and suggests practical considerations for those about to embark on automation projects. Sources of information on library automation, the overselling of microcomputing power, systems analysis, and factors to consider in purchase justification are highlighted. Four…

Suggests practical steps the uninitiated librarian can take to become familiar with automation opportunities and discusses issues that should be considered in choosing an automation system for the small library. Getting acquainted with computer world, evaluating library environment, and considering options are covered. Eight references are cited.…

Explores current status of archival automation on both the national and local levels, and discusses its implications for control and access of historical documentation. Development of Selected Permutation Index by National Archives and Records Service, automation at Library of Congress (LC) Manuscript Division, and planning for automation are…

An outline for librarians who want to cooperatively plan to implement a shared circulation system, this guide employs a method of planning based on policy analysis. The stages of problem formulation, identification of objectives, perceptual activity, system design, information gathering, and evaluation are outlined. Although this guide contains…

Ways in which computer technology can be used to support the development of a library network are proposed by the Computer Application Task Force, following the recommendations of the New Jersey Statewide Planning Group and its several task forces. A summary of three primary recommendations is followed by a general discussion of opportunities…

A study was conducted to inventory and describe the quantitative performance measures of an academic library system which originate as a result of the activities at an automated loan desk. Visits were made to 24 academic libraries whose experience in library automation ranged from the completely on-line system with user self service and in-house…

Urges community college librarians to become leaders in library instruction by developing aggressive teaching programs using high-technology information resources, such as compact disc read-only-memory (CD-ROM), telecommunications, and on-line databases. Discusses training, hardware, software, and funding issues. (DMM)

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.…