Richmond Public Library (RPL) is a four-branch suburban library with the highest per capita circulation of any comparable library in Canada. While DVDs naturally fit into RPL's emphasis on popular material, circulating them using the standard model proved problematic: Long hold queues built up, DVDs idled on the hold shelves, and the circulation…

Describes the origins of hypertext and reviews the history of the concept of nonsequential access to information that led to hypertext. Technological developments that have been combined with hypertext are discussed, including workstations, video and laser disk technology, and microcomputers; and library applications of hypertext and hypermedia…

A pilot project at the Medical College of Wisconsin illustrates how even small computing organizations with limited financial and staff resources can provide remote access to CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read-Only-Memory) databases, and that providing such convenient access to a vast array of useful information can greatly benefit faculty and students.…

Examines factors which may affect the receptivity of librarians to the use of optical disk technologies, including hardware and software issues, the content of currently available databases, and the integration of optical technologies into existing library services. (CLB)

Describes the design and implementation of the Reference Expert, a database based on INMAGIC software which contains problem reference questions and answers for use by library reference desk staff. Topics discussed include staff response to the database and problems encountered in its development. A sidebar describes the use of WORM…

Recognizing that the fast-developing optical storage technologies provide a new dimension in publishing and information storage, retrieval, and distribution, this report examines the technical characteristics and capabilities of video and optical systems and the implications of this technology. The following aspects of optical disk systems are…

CD-ROM indexes have made students independent library users, but librarians feel that students are not using the technology effectively or critically. Discusses the effect of information technology on library instruction and on librarians' roles. Suggests that library services focus on accessing information instead of controlling it--by creating…

Compares the compact disc read-only-memory (CD-ROM) Magazine Article Summaries (MAS) and Magazine Index Plus Backfile (MI+) in terms of system hardware, index coverage, searching capabilities, citation display, printing citations, local holdings, and miscellaneous features and costs. Finds in favor of MAS. (DMM)

Describes the use of CD-ROM products containing company and industrial information for job searches and career planning. Examples of potential applications are provided, and search capabilities are examined. Brief descriptions of several products are presented, including a database of Security and Exchange Commission filings, Disclosure, Lotus One…

Summarizes some of the applications of automation in the Miami-Dade (Florida) Public Library System. A detailed discussion of the system CD-ROM LAN (Local Area Network) covers hardware and software, cost factors, advantages of networking CD-ROMs, problems, and evaluation. It is concluded that the advantages of a CD-ROM LAN outweigh the…

Based on the experiences of the staff at the Penn State University Libraries, this article focuses on two issues involved in public use of CD-ROM products in an academic library setting: placement of CD-ROM systems in the reference area; and staffing and responsibility for equipment and software. (MES)

The first of two articles on the acquisition and implementation of a large laserdisk service at Texas A&M University covers funding, donor recognition, selection and ordering of databases, planning and integrating the service with other information services, and future funding and plans. (5 references) (MES)

Describes the implementation of the OCLC Search CD450 system with the ERIC databases at Southern Oregon State College. Technical support, learning the system, user aids, patron response, security, and future plans are discussed. An introduction to searching on the system and a sample search screen are shown. (MES)

Discusses the financial pressures libraries face as the number and cost of serials escalate while funding is reduced. Presents a case study of a small library that eliminated physical subscriptions to journals and enhanced its service to include CD-ROM technology after ranking journals according to a cost benefit analysis. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the changing relationship between information professionals (vendors, database producers, and searchers) and end users during the last three decades. Examines the concept of the end user, including professionals; libraries; end user searchers; DIALOG and BRS; ease of use issues; search intermediaries; menu-driven systems; and CD-ROM…