Briefly describes some available database design tools and provides a detailed description and evaluation of the ER-Design Package, a sophisticated and comprehensive tool available on microcomputer. Some of the ER-Design functions evaluated include the main design module, diagram generation, conversion to relational schema, normalization of files,…

Provides an overview of how optical storage technologies--videodisk, Write-Once disks, and CD-ROM CD-I disks are built into and controlled via DEC, Apple, Atari, Amiga, and IBM PC compatible microcomputers. Several available products are noted and a list of producers is included. (EM)

This paper describes in depth the development, use, and capabilities of a microcomputer-based bibliographic system established for the International Program for Agricultural Knowledge Systems at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Hardware, software and outputs, and features of the INMAGIC database (adding records, searching,…

Four articles discuss library uses of dBase III: (1) an interlibrary loan journal request file; (2) an acquisitions system; (3) customized multi-column output for reports; and (4) a circulation system. Program listings are included. (EM)

Addresses problems encountered by self-taught "talented amateurs" doing microcomputer systems work for libraries: not maintaining design control, not maintaining operational control, attempting to use someone else's database, having variety of diverse systems activity converging on common database, attempting to run whole show, and…

Describes microcomputer based search system that provides access to selected portions of the ERIC database using a simplified and guided format and serves as inexpensive tool to teach concepts of online searching and information retrieval. Getting started, decision and command lines, help instructions, and availability of database disks are…

Recommends the use of microcomputers for computer-assisted indexing; describes five case studies; and provides a list of representative software programs including title, producer, compatible hardware, price, and a short description. (EM)

Description of a general purpose microcomputer database management package covers assist and program mode; performance (set-up and loading, data entry, editing, ease of use, report generators, data manipulation, searching a database, file handling utilities, user interface, memo fields, date operations, multi-file processing, command files, error…

Automation of a table of contents service at the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing Library using dBase III facilitates matching patrons with journals. The program is also used for journal check-in and mailing labels. Future applications may include production of a journal holdings list, statistics, and reporting. (21 references) (MES)

The Sydney Micro Library System is a microcomputer-based integrated library system with cataloging, inquiry, and system management modules that form the base system for running the optional acquisitions, circulation, serials, and MARC record modules. Designed for small special libraries, the system has parallel minicomputer and microcomputer…

This discussion of three automated acquisitions systems--Bib-Base/Acq, The Book Trak Ordering System, and Card Datalog Acquisitions Module--covers searching and updating, editing, acquisitions functions and statistics, purchase orders and order file, budgeting and accounts maintenance, defining parameters, documentation, security, printing, and…

Lists computer programs selected on basis of following criteria: (1) applicability or easy adaptability to academic or research library environment; (2) operative on three microcomputer brands found in academic and research libraries; (3) good or excellent reviews appearing in software magazines; (4) price ranging from $50-$350. Vendor addresses…

Discusses optical character recognition (OCR) for use with MS-DOS microcomputers. Cost effectiveness is considered, three types of software approaches to character recognition are explained, hardware and operation requirements are described, possible library applications are discussed, future OCR developments are suggested, and a list of OCR…

Describes one medium-sized public library's use of dBase III to control the processing of videocassettes. Reformatting existing files, creating the database, and custom design of the program are explained. (EM)

Six brief papers on expert systems for libraries cover (1) a knowledge-based approach to database design; (2) getting started in expert systems; (3) using public domain software to develop a business reference system; (4) a music cataloging inquiry system; (5) linguistic analysis of reference transactions; and (6) a model of a reference librarian.…