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…

Addresses problems encountered by a library when considering, selecting, and contracting for an automated library system. Topics covered include information needed by the vendor (size of database, volume of transactions, and acceptable response times), reasons why libraries and vendors have failed, and possible solutions. Six sources are given.…

Analyzes the skills required of systems librarians as indicated by job advertisements. Three broad responsibilities are identified: planning, installation and implementation, and maintenance. It is concluded that lack of understanding of how computers function as tools in libraries has impeded a clear definition of the duties of systems…

Discussion of the maintenance of both the software and hardware in an automated library system highlights maintenance by the vendor, contracts and costs, the maintenance log, downtime, and planning for trouble. (EJS)

Discussion of human engineering factors of using online catalogs offers guidelines for selection and placement of terminals and furniture. (eight references) (MES)

A survey on the extent of library automation in academic libraries in Louisiana was undertaken to satisfy four objectives: (1) program planning for the library section of the 1980 Conference of Louisiana Colleges and Universities; (2) to provide information about library automation to the academic community; (3) planning assistance for the…

Computer/automated catalogs have been in use in secondary schools for some time and have numerous advantages. A public access catalog (PAC) allows networking with other libraries, use of the Boolean search function, and the retrieval of bibliographic citations from a variety of access points. Moreover, PAC's have recently become more user…

Discusses the processes involved in migrating a library's automation system. Highlights include getting information from vendor demonstrations, setting up an evaluation database to analyze RFPs (requests for proposals), making a spreadsheet that compares costs of packages, making recommendations once the data are analyzed, and implementation…

This report describing the current and future use of online automation technology in Connecticut libraries provides recommendations designed to assist Connecticut libraries in making more effective use of current systems, in selecting the most appropriate new systems, and by providing a basis for effective statewide planning that will take…

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…

This paper provides a brief overview of planning and implementing a project to fund library automation. It is suggested that: (1) proposal budgets should include all costs of a project, such as furniture needed for computer terminals, costs for modifying library procedures, initial supplies, or ongoing maintenance; (2) automation does not save…

Providing a customized disaster response plan to assist libraries in quick recovery, this resource also outlines step to minimize damage and protect materials before trouble strikes. The first section of the book, "Response," contains information how to handle small jobs in-house and suggestions for working with contractors--with an…

Addresses the necessity of incorporating new computer technologies into school library resource centers and notes some administrative challenges. An extensive checklist is provided for assessing equipment and furniture needs, physical facilities, and rewiring needs. A glossary of 20 terms and 11 additional resources is included. (AEF)

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.…

This task force report outlines a five-year strategic plan for the Indiana State University Library. The plan discusses expected changes and provides recommendations as to how to best meet new needs in eight areas: (1) the environment, including financial support, use of library resources, and changes in the composition of the user group; (2) user…