Describes VASARI (the Visual Art System for Archiving and Retrieval of Images), a project funded by the European Community to show the feasibility of high resolution colormetric imaging directly from paintings. The hardware and software used in the system are explained, storage on optical disks is described, and initial results are reported. (five…

This special feature focuses on recent developments in optical disk technology. Nine articles discuss current trends, large scale image processing, data structures for optical disks, the use of computer simulators to create optical disks, videodisk use in training, interactive audio video systems, impacts on federal information policy, and…

Describes a computer simulation called ICCARUS (Intelligent Command and Control, Acquisition and Review Using Simulation) that was developed for training fire officers in the United Kingdom. The integration of microcomputer-based software, videodisks, and audio material on compact disks into the simulation is described; and results of an…

Describes an interactive hypermedia approach to computer-assisted language learning (CALL) that is being developed in the United Kingdom for second-language learning in higher education. The use of microcomputers and optical storage devices is discussed; software authoring packages are examined; and issues concerning human-computer interface,…

Discussion of the rapid growth in CD-ROM products highlights "HyperIntro to CD-ROM Technology and Products," an electronic publishing product. Three main components of the system are described: CD-ROM Technology; CD-ROM Products; and CD-ROM Usage, which describes how CD-ROM is being used and evaluated in libraries and information centers…

Describes the development of "Europe in the Round," a CD-ROM that was designed to test the hypothesis that a combination of hypertext with mass storage would make a powerful learning tool. Screen design is discussed, including universal icons and visual effects, and field testing is described. (five references) (LRW)

Describes problems encountered during early attempts at library automation in China, including the slow development of telecommunications systems and the high cost of international online retrieval. The successful use of imported databases on CD-ROM to overcome these problems is discussed, focusing on applications in library technical services and…

Discusses the use of CD-ROMs in Africa based on experiences of the Population Information Program (PIP) at Johns Hopkins University. Topics addressed include available CD-ROM hardware; how CD-ROMs can help alleviate information problems in Africa; and how to market CD-ROMs in Africa. (10 references) (LRW)

The "Hypermedia for Teaching" project is a European collaborative venture designed to produce a hypermedia learning package that is published on CD-ROM. Two versions of the package are to be developed. One of these is intended to be used on a multimedia personal computer (MPC), while the other is to be used in conjunction with…

Describes how the Swift-Current Comprehensive High School (Saskatchewan) library computerized to create an online catalog, provide access to remote databases, and acquire CD-ROM reference systems. Objectives, hardware and software selection and costs, implementation, and evaluation are discussed. Seven references are listed, and a directory of…

Describes a project at the Ministry of Health Library and Documentation Centre in Malawi, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), that changed the role of the library from information collector to producer of information through the use of desktop publishing and the creation of CD-ROM databases. (LRW)

Describes an evaluative project in which a prototype bibliographic database on optical data disk was installed in six developing country libraries and a Canadian library. The results of the project are discussed in terms of user satisfaction and cost effectiveness, and recommendations are made to donor agencies, information providers, and…

Discusses the use of microcomputers as a first step toward library automation in developing countries, and describes microcomputer projects in Trinidad and Tobago to illustrate factors that need to be considered. These factors include hardware selection, installation and maintenance, hardware appropriateness, output requirements, software, the…

Discusses the use of CD-ROM products in libraries and describes a full-text CD-ROM library, called the Compact Agricultural Library, that is being produced for developing nations. Topics discussed include CD-ROM and international development; making information more useable; full-text versus fielded information; editing and layout; hypertext; and…

Discussion of the role and status of academic libraries in China focuses on automation efforts. Microcomputer-based applications are described; problems are discussed; and technological advances are considered. It is concluded that CD-ROMs in conjunction with microcomputers should be used in the majority of Chinese academic libraries. (10…