Discusses the long-term value of bibliographic records to the library and the cost and service implications of that value. Topics covered include records in the public domain; sources of machine-readable bibliographic records (bibliographic utilities, state and multistate networks, commercial vendors, federal agencies, libraries); rights and…

Discusses a problem commonly encountered in library automation projects: the conversion from existing card catalog formats to machine readable catalog (MARC) records. Catalog formats, the advantages of full versus limited records, changing computer technology, the advantages of full MARC records, and record standardization are among the topics…

Provides a brief history of the Universal Serials and Book Exchange, describes the services available from USBE, and discusses its plans for the future. (CHC)

Describes the Library Computer System, an online circulation system used in 22 Illinois libraries, that features complete holdings and circulation status information for serials and monographs. Problems in the network environment, plans for modification, and reasons why the system works are identified. References and two additional readings are…

Outlines the automation process at the Library of Congress begun in 1961, noting problems encountered and future possibilities, and describing databases currently in use--SCORPIO, MUMS, MARC, COPICS AND COINS, ISIS, AND PAGING. (EJS)

Discusses the establishment of the library of the J. Paul Getty Center for the History of Art and the Humanities, noting the architectural design of the Getty Museum, the Getty Trust, library automation, and collection development. (EJS)

Lamentably, the likelihood is that cataloging information provided by the Library of Congress will continue to function inadequately in the communication process unless we at the local level do something about it. (Author)

This report on the microcomputer-to-mainframe link highlights advantages and weaknesses of each system when used independently; technical considerations for link (personal computer emulates a dumb terminal, data transfer, selective data access category, nongeneric links); how librarians can use the link; availability of software; and planning for…

A computer system which has the ability to transfer information directly from OCLC to the in-house computer was developed for use in the acquisition and processing of library materials for the Claremont College (California) libraries. Extensions of the system including automated circulation and conversion to online catalogs are being considered.…

Describes the conversion of card catalog records at William Jasper Kerr Library, Oregon State University, to an online system. Discussion covers the use of OCLC and student assistants, procedures and specifications, and problems associated with massive retrospective conversion needs and uncertain budget allocations. Eight sources are recommended.…

Discusses the Virginia Tech Library System (VTLS) which is currently in an intermediate step between a basic short-record circulation and finding system and a totally integrated library processing system that will incorporate circulation control, acquisitions, serials, and an online catalog. (CHC)

Relates the experiences of a private preparatory school librarian in her search for a cataloging system, and the selection and use of OCLC to automate her library's cataloging processes. Benefits and costs of OCLC system and interlibrary loan subsystem use are discussed. (MBR)

This description of the development of an academic research library in Los Angeles includes a brief history of the University of California, and discusses university librarians, library buildings, special collections, automation, and cooperative programs. (EJS)

Five articles discuss information technology in libraries: (1) "Software for Libraries" (Katharine Phenix); (2) "Online Update: European Online Services" (Martin Kesselman); (3) "Connect Time: Online Pricing Breakthroughs" (Barbara Quint); (4) "Microcomputing: Micro Biology Computer Viruses" (James LaRue);…

This discussion of the effects of computer technology on the services of research libraries includes descriptions of four information technology services that could replace more expensive traditional services. The efforts of the Research Libraries Group to reshape information services for their scholars is also described. (CHC)