Directed toward librarians and library administrators who wish to procure automated systems or services for their libraries, this guide offers practical suggestions, advice, and methods for determining requirements, estimating costs and benefits, writing specifications procuring systems, negotiating contracts, and installing systems. The advice…

Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

Provides a comprehensive list of all the major vendors offering the Windows NT operating system, the latest in integrated online library systems software. Describes features and capabilities; platforms; and libraries where it is installed. (AEF)

Describes cataloging software characteristics (data input, storage, retrieval, and output); outlines acquisitions software requirements (recommendations, data input, budgetary control, dispatch of orders, claims and cancellations, receipts, management information); presents examples of cataloging and acquisitions software; and discusses the nature…

Two teachers and seven media specialists from five school districts in Muskingum County (Ohio) had three weeks to write a proposal for a library automation grant. Before writing, they met to assess needs, determine how to find information on hardware and software, and establish long-term goals. As a result, they received the grant. (Author/AEF)

This study compares the three versions of DOBIS (Dartmunder Bibliothekssystem) that are currently running in Canada and the Washington Library Network (WLN) systems in order to determine which one is the most appropriate to replicate in support of the British Columbia Library Network (BCLN). Comparisons of systems costs and operating features, the…

Describes features of existing software packages for circulation control (borrower and item files, data capture and verification, issue, return, renewal, loan conditions, reservations, overdues, updating, and management information), and serials control (ordering, recording receipt, reader access, binding and financial control, listings, and…

Guidelines for library automation include information on currently available microcomputer-based software products appropriate for small libraries and integrated systems for the larger libraries that can afford them. Costs, capabilities, functions, and vendor service are discussed, and a directory of vendors is included. (CDD)

Presents detailed reports on four multifunctional library systems which utilize a single bibliographic database and common software to support cataloging, circulation control, and related operations: two turnkey systems--the Automated Library Information System and LS/2000 System--and two software packages--Dortmund and Lewen Library Systems and…

Briefly reviews history of library automation before discussing factors that libraries should consider before choosing to go online (collection size, machine-readable database, computer equipment, costs), and features of online catalogs (database organization, search features, authority files, display options). Information about selected online…

Discusses factors that should be considered when comparing microcomputer software for small and medium-sized library catalogs and describes eight specific packages--BRS/Search Micros/Mini Version, Card Catalog, Golden Retriever, INMAGIC, TEQLIB, FINDER, SCIMATE, and STAR. (Author/MBR)

Discusses areas to be considered in planning for an automated system for a school library including standards; networking; hardware; cost; order of conversion; retrospective conversion; non-print bibliographic records; vendor reputation; integration with school management software; and subject access. Microcomputer integrated systems,…

This annual compilation is designed as a resource for access to products (hardware and software) and services related to library automation and information storage. Sections include products and services by category, vendor, and brand name, as well as addresses (including phone/fax, e-mail, and URL for web pages) of companies and consultants. (AEF)

This manual was designed to provide the library manager or supervisor with a basic understanding of microcomputer hardware, software, procurement, and supervision. While developed for a summer workshop series, it can also serve as an introductory text. Separate chapters cover 10 major topics: (1) the microtechnology revolution; (2) how a…

Examines the automated library system marketplace from three perspectives: the turnkey system (vendor provides complete package--hardware, software, installation, training assistance--to meet needs surrounding particular library function), systems developed by one library which may be transferred to another, and the library microcomputer. Vendor…