This issue on current options in the area of machine-readable cataloging and retrospective conversion highlights generation and use of machine-readable bibliographic records, editing, standards, online and batch access, keying and coding, full-service cataloging and conversion, interlibrary loan, and authority control. Profiles of 22…

Discusses need for retrospective conversion of library catalogs in terms of user-problems related to split catalogs in various formats. Difficulties to be overcome in retrospective conversion projects (ownership of records, costs, non-Roman script languages, standards and inhospitability of MARC for variety of manuscript and pictorial material)…

Report on the status of automation within Library of Congress's Processing Services notes the positive effects of progress in cataloging activities, acquisitions activities, information retrieval, and dissemination of bibliographic products. Systems in operation, distribution services and products, and automation tasks not yet scheduled are…

This document describes a proposed computer to computer protocol for electronic communication of digital information over a nationwide library bibliographic network. The protocol allows application tasks at one site on the network to converse with application tasks at any other site, regardless of differences in computer architecture or operating…

The literature on automated serials control systems and related subjects is reviewed and conclusions are drawn on the issues raised. As much as possible the data reported in the literature are verified. A selected bibliography of documents published prior to the data of this report is prepared. In addition to descriptions of the major serials…

Discussion of the effect of computer technology on library automation and networking highlights added benefits and added costs, autonomous past, pressure for standardization, rise of bibliographic utilities (e.g., OCLC, Research Library Information Network, Washington Library Network), return to decentralization, distributed processing,…

Lists citations of publications from mid-1973 through 1977, grouped under such headings as overview and general, bibliographies, standards, specific systems, technical processing, acquisitions, cataloging and classification, the catalog, serials, circulation, interlibrary loan, reference services, special subject materials, minicomputer…

Prepared for consideration by the Network Technical Architecture Group (NTAG), a subcommittee of the Library of Congress (LC) Network Advisory Group, this document describes the study and development of text formats for the message delivery system of a nationwide library bibliographic network. Following a discussion of network considerations of…

In a program sponsored by the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), the Library of Congress (LC) Processing Department reports on progress in development of the National Bibliographic Service. The first paper deals with past, present, and future cooperation between LC and the ARL. The second paper provides an overview of the automation…

Libraries' dependence on computers can lead to frustrations for patrons and staff during downtime caused by computer system failures. Advice for reducing the number of crashes is provided, focusing on improved training for systems staff, better management of library systems, and the development of computer systems using quality components which…

The dilemma of cataloging works in writing systems other than the roman alphabet is explored. Some characteristics of these writing system are reviewed, and the implications of these characteristics for input, retrieval, sorting, and display needed for adequate online catalogs of such works are considered. Reasons why needs have not been met are…