This in-depth look at database management systems (DBMS) for microcomputers covers data entry, information retrieval, security, DBMS software and design, and downloading of literature search results. The advantages of in-house systems versus online search vendors are discussed, and specifications of three software packages and 14 sources are…

This review of public domain software (written by individuals who release programs for free copying and distribution) focuses on disk utility programs which deal with the manipulation of files on disks (finding, moving, changing, viewing, organizing, storing). Sources for identifying programs and three addresses for software distribution are…

Describes uses of the microcomputer by Instant Information, Inc., highlighting administrative tasks (accounting, correspondence, file maintenance) and microcomputer's ability to act as dumb terminal in information retrieval. Software selection, the company's computer program "Instantcom" which supports communication and retrieval, and…

Describes use of a database management system (dBASE II, produced by Ashton-Tate), noting best features and disadvantages. Highlights include data entry, multiple access points available, training requirements, use of dBASE for a bibliographic application, auxiliary software, and dBASE updates. Sample searches, auxiliary programs, and requirements…

Describes method of generating Electronic Yellow Pages mailing labels using DIALOG commands which involve downloading to disk and interposing a BASIC language program between disk and printer. Downloading problems (accession numbers, "tic" which DIALOG provides, line noise), two versions of program (full, compressed), and output examples…

Descriptions of available microcomputer software cover basic software, word processing, database management systems, in-house information retrieval, searching of external online information retrieval systems, in-house library housekeeping, and financial and management software. Checklist of points to consider when acquiring software, 36…

This discussion of current microcomputer technologies available to libraries focuses on software applications in four major classifications: communications (online database searching); word processing; administration; and database management systems. Specific examples of library applications are given and six references are cited. (EJS)

Describes Reflink, a system based on sophisticated information retrieval techniques which is housed in a small microcomputer, and its predecessor, Reference Librarian Enhancement System (REFLES). The systems are placed in a conceptual framework involving stable and dynamic information, and several illustrations of multiple uses are presented. Four…

Issues and impacts of microcomputer use in libraries are discussed in terms of labor dislocation, costs, distributed data processing, networks, current system configurations and capabilities, and software. Reference service management, information retrieval systems, and external online access are also examined. Twenty-six references are listed.…

Presents abstracts of selected papers on computer topics. These include: computers and mathematics education; microcomputers in school science; model for developing elementary school computer science curriculum; computer-oriented pre/inservice training for science and mathematics teachers; using databases to locate information on software;…

Preliminary description of design of electronic library and home information delivery system highlights potentials of personal computer interface program (applying for service, assuring that users are valid, checking for measures, searching, locating titles) and incorporation of concepts used in other information systems (security checks,…

Describes Project Retrieve, an information retrieval system designed especially for the Commodore PET Microcomputer, which is in use at the library of Brock University in Ontario. Over 200 instructional items housed at the library are identified by subject area on the computerized system. (JJD)

Describes a system for identifying and retrieving relevant citations on a monthly basis which can be accomplished with any microcomputer and printer possessing capability of telecommunication and downloading. Procedures for comprehensive search, downloading, formatting of information for printing, printing file cards and abstracts, and…

Ways a microcomputer can be used to establish and maintain an evaluation database and types of data management features possible on a microcomputer are described in this report, which contains step-by-step procedures and numerous examples for establishing a database, manipulating data, and designing and printing reports. Following a brief…

Based on online searching experiences on microcomputer at a small liberal arts college, this article outlines for the novice advantages and disadvantages of micro-searching, legal implications, future trends, and factors to consider in selecting hardware and software. A 16-item bibliography arranged in order of usefulness and 10 references are…