A series of five runs comprised of 20 searches each were carried out in a three-year span of the INSPEC data base. The same queries were processed manually in the corresponding volumes of Science Abstracts, and comparison of the output of each search method exposed reasons for the failures. Emphasis is laid on the fact that a query comprises other…

After two to three hours of class instruction, it is possible for students to use MEDLINE independently and to gain a valuable learning experience. (Author)

The investigation of the performance, economics, and acceptability to users of the selective dissemination of information (SDI) computer system that supported the International Information Service in Physics, Electrotechnology, Computers, and Control (INSPEC) during its initial testing phase is described. The initial design of the study, involving…

Describes Reflink, a system based on sophisticated information retrieval techniques which is housed in a small microcomputer, and its predecessor, Reference Librarian Enhancement System (REFLES). The systems are placed in a conceptual framework involving stable and dynamic information, and several illustrations of multiple uses are presented. Four…

The results of a survey of machine-readable data bases in Wisconsin are reported. Fifty-eight data bases accessed by Wisconsin libraries are listed alphabetically. Included in the descriptions are the name of the data base, its subject coverage, its availability, the year it began, the frequency of update, the current size of the file, the name of…

A file management system provides a powerful search tool for library reference groups. The system described produces current awareness and retrospective searches from diverse data bases. The same query language is used to interrogate all data bases in on-line or batch mode searches. (4 references) (Author/DH)

Issues and impacts of microcomputer use in libraries are discussed in terms of labor dislocation, costs, distributed data processing, networks, current system configurations and capabilities, and software. Reference service management, information retrieval systems, and external online access are also examined. Twenty-six references are listed.…

Discusses issues involved in offering printing for online library catalogs and weighs advantages and disadvantages of screen printing versus remote printing--speed, quality, privacy, convenience, noise, control, costs, accessibility and service. Additional technical issues discussed are buffered versus unbuffered asynchronous printer ports,…

Preliminary description of design of electronic library and home information delivery system highlights potentials of personal computer interface program (applying for service, assuring that users are valid, checking for measures, searching, locating titles) and incorporation of concepts used in other information systems (security checks,…

Research Libraries Group (RLG) is a corporation owned by 26 academic libraries in the United States. To accomplish their goals, RLG maintains a computerized library services system known as the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN). The RLIN system (and subsystems), design considerations, functions, and benefits for RLG members. (Author/JN)

Based on online searching experiences on microcomputer at a small liberal arts college, this article outlines for the novice advantages and disadvantages of micro-searching, legal implications, future trends, and factors to consider in selecting hardware and software. A 16-item bibliography arranged in order of usefulness and 10 references are…

Uses qualitative survey data to find patterns and themes among librarians with regard to their attitudes toward the Internet and reference services, and related professional activities. Includes a selection of categorized survey responses, interpretation of the data by the author and suggestions for further research. (Contains 3 references.)…

In July 1973 the University of New Mexico's General Library, in cooperation with the Technology Application Center, introduced a computerized search service for faculty members on a one-year experimental basis. During the study two user evaluation meetings caused some improvements to be made, particularly in the area of working more closely with…

As part of the first year activities of the Northeast Academic Science Information Center (NASIC), a survey was made of existing bibliographic information centers and information processing activities across the country. Reports are presented on the activities of each of the 11 centers identified. A bibliography of information about computerized…

Describes how automation improves genealogical reference services and access to sources at the Genealogical Library, Salt Lake City, Utah. Highlights include specialized access strategies to the computer-output microfiche catalog, the creation of a union catalog, special outputs from an automated system, and future developments in library…