Describes a project that developed two expert systems for library cataloging using the second edition of the Anglo American Cataloging Rules (AACR2) as a knowledge base. The discussion covers cataloging as interpretation, the structure of AACR2, and the feasibility of using expert systems for cataloging in traditional library settings. (26…

This essay suggests that until online public access catalogs can be truly user-friendly by encouraging searchers to learn and control and relearn, making systems too easy is not in the users' or systems' best interests. Experiences at Library of Congress and examples of search strategies and menu systems are noted. (EJS)

Distinguishes between two basic types of interaction with online cataloging systems: preparation of bibliographic record offline by cataloger followed by online entry by clerk and interactive consultation by cataloger of online catalog while entering records. The Dobis/Libis system, authority files, code tables, command chaining, multidimensional…

This review of the research on subject access to library collections focuses on the problems of and prospects for improved online subject access to library collections. Summaries of the general findings of studies on library catalog use and catalog users and some reasons for the frequent failure of subject searches in library catalogs are followed…

The online catalog discussed in this report extends the present microfiche union catalog development by providing online access to bibliographic records for the holdings of the University of California Libraries. The specifications for the user interface through which the library patron communicates with the online systems to locate materials are…

Describes the features and operations of a user-searchable online catalog called PaperChase which was developed and implemented for the retrieval of medical literature by physicians at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. Interaction with the system and use of the catalog during its first year of operation are discussed. (JL)

Discusses basic principles of human-computer interface design that will be helpful to librarians involved in designing effective OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) screens. Highlights include physical features; general principles; menu screens; commands; inquiry screens; messages, including help screens; and organizational considerations,…

Discusses ability of small computers to hold interface programs, to retrieve data from central source, to manipulate and present that data, and to engage in dialog with system user. An example of a feasible dialog between user and system which mediates and translates user's data into machine terms is highlighted. (EJS)

Explains rationale behind proposed voluntary U.S. standard computerized library catalog called the "Uniform Catalog." Design goals (should mimic manual card catalog, offer simplicity of operation and low overhead, permit modular growth to more advanced catalog), sample search, and nine commands and functions used by "Uniform…

Describes the scope, objectives, and status of a study of user responses to public online catalogs conducted in 1982 with Council on Library Resources (CLR) funding. The framework for evaluating the user-catalog interface, data collection, and questionnaire content are discussed, and a copy of the survey questionnaire is appended. (Author/JL)

Looks at the social and psychological effects on users of the introduction of online catalogs in libraries, examines several major changes in public and professional use of the catalog that result from online systems, and examines some of the unintended social effects of each of these changes. Three references are listed. (EJS)

The current status of MELVYL, the University of California's prototype online catalog, is described in a hypothetical conversation between the catalog and several users. Examples illustrate features of the two search modes available for this patron-accessed system: COMMAND for the novice, and the more sophisticated LOOKUP. (RBF)

Discussion of online catalogs focuses on issues in interface design. Issues addressed include understanding the user base; common user access (CUA) with personal computers; common command language (CCL); hyperlinks; screen design issues; differences from card catalogs; indexes; graphic user interfaces (GUIs); color; online help; and remote users.…

Describes the development of the Adaptive Network Library Interface (ANLI), an interactive computer program that acts as an interface between the users of an online card catalog and the catalog itself. Highlights include historical background; hypertext and the ANLI; neuronal nets and von Neumann computer architectures; and future possibilities.…

Discusses and compares some online catalog systems actually in operation in terms of self-service usability; number, choice, and formulation of access points; record content and display; database content; connections to technical processing and circulation; number and location of terminals; equipment and software features; and cost. (Six…