Discusses the long-term value of bibliographic records to the library and the cost and service implications of that value. Topics covered include records in the public domain; sources of machine-readable bibliographic records (bibliographic utilities, state and multistate networks, commercial vendors, federal agencies, libraries); rights and…

An information service designed to meet women's needs operates at the Montclair, New Jersey, public library. (PF)

Considers the use of nonbibliographic databases, also known as source files, as an information service supplied to library users and notes commercially produced databases, brokerage firms offering a variety of small databases, community resource files, differences between use of bibliographic and non-bibliographic databases including fees, and…

Discusses readers' advisory services in public libraries and describes a method to convert information on specific books and genres to a computer database. Topics include utilizing staff knowledge, fields included for each book, the development of descriptors, the editing process, and writing summaries and critiques of the books. (LRW)

Describes the functions and characteristics of the microcomputer and discusses library applications including cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, serials control, reference and database systems, administration, current and future trends, and computers as media. Twenty references are listed. (CHC)

Discusses the use of microcomputer-based workstations that are provided for public access in libraries. Criteria for workstations are discussed, including standard hardware, open-design software, scalable interface, and connectivity options for networking; systems that provide full-text access are described; and the need for standards is…

Discusses the inception and history of the Research Libraries Group, a member-owned corporation of 25 universities begun in 1972 and dedicated to improving the management of information necessary for the advancement of scholarship. Goals, programs (shared resources program, collection development program), and network database are noted. (EJS)

Addresses issues involved in implementing Out-Dial program at Pennsylvania State University Libraries, where the feasibility of using online catalog terminals to access external databases is undergoing evaluation. Placement of terminals and microcomputers, "ready reference" searching, vendors, training, cost-effective searching,…

This article describes two separate workshops offered to college faculty during the spring 1984 semester: one in online bibliographic searching, one in using computers to manage personal files of bibliographic references (examination of existing systems, types of software available). A telephone survey evaluation conducted 3 months after sessions…

Discusses document delivery and resource sharing and their effects on traditional interlibrary loan services. The issue of ownership of versus access to information is considered; alternative sources for document delivery are described, including commercial suppliers, fee-based information suppliers, and full-text databases; and evaluation…

Describes the alternatives used by the Penn State University libraries to respond to the challenge of providing access to the many different kinds of databases. Approaches include development of a generic interface based on the Z39.50 protocol; staff support, including instruction, reliable documentation, and staff involvement; and better user…