Describes current online technology, including the physical and functional aspects of three types of networks: search service, customized service providing bibliographic files, and service center. (FM)

Discussion of state information networks highlights the network entrepreneurs, state network development, the third decade of networking, and six potential issues of special concern to state library networks: decentralization, standards, linkage, technical obsolescence, security, and appropriate technology for small libraries. (EJS)

The development of special-purpose information products for clients of the LEADERMART information retrieval system is described. (9 references) (RS)

Results of a survey of 20 networks distributing OCLC reveal patterns of service beyond OCLC and a commitment by the networks to automated library support systems, as well as brokerage of other automated services, revenue sources, staff size and growth, and future network planning. The questionnaire and four references are included. (Author/RAA)

This report presents an analysis of the search query arguments of several major bibliographic utilities and shows the commonalities and differences of the query structure among the various systems. The report illustrates a symbolic metalanguage that was developed to describe and compare the search arguments. In addition, status and error messages…

This comparison of three major bibliographic utilities, prepared at the University of Oregon, provides evaluative information to members of the university community contemplating the use of their services. Included are basic characteristics, resource sharing, technical processing, and public services. (RAA)

This presentation by the president and chief executive officer of OCLC focuses on library automation and networking in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, citing an article by Richard DeGennaro and relating experiences at OCLC in resource sharing and related information services. (EJS)

Describes the history and development of the Tri-State College Library Cooperative (TCLC) Literature Search Center, a network of small academic libraries that cooperate to provide a computerized literature search service. (FM)

Discusses results of opinion poll conducted by Library and Information Technology Association of 334 academic, public, government, and corporate libraries concerning authority control in the online environment. Use of authority files on bibliographic utilities, presence of online catalogs, Library of Congress authority records, and comments from…

Presents new perspective on computerized information interchange within library community, and explains Open Systems Interconnection Model promoted by International Organization for Standardization, American National Standards Institute, and National Bureau of Standards. The Linked System Project undertaken by Library of Congress, Research…

Discusses the need for an online interface between existing networks and between stand-alone systems and networks through examination of network synergy, trends in networking, and types of services provided by online library networks. The need for creation of implemented network standards for network message traffic is noted. (CWM)

Some 25 library networks in the United States now rely on computers for resource sharing. Library functions that best lend themselves to automated network operation include: cataloging, acquisitions, interlibrary loan, and reference. Progress over the last ten years in collecting and standardizing machine-readable data for library applications…

Activities of Online Computer Library Center, a nonprofit corporation developed in 1967 that provides a cooperative, computerized network, are discussed. Member, staff, and financial growth; unique subsystems (cataloging, acquisitions, serials control, interlibrary loan, retrospective conversion); problems with terminals, taxes, and competitive…

Examines some of the issues that public libraries have had to deal with in delineating and pursuing as a specific organizational goal the provision of access to information. The perspective adopted is historical but not strictly chronological. Thirty-six references are listed. (Author/LLS)

The two purposes of this report are to present concrete proposals related to the need for the National Library of Canada to facilitate the development of nationwide bibliographic and associated communications networks, and to outline the relevant network concepts assumed in framing the nine recommendations and the related implementation proposals…