Guidelines for library automation include information on currently available microcomputer-based software products appropriate for small libraries and integrated systems for the larger libraries that can afford them. Costs, capabilities, functions, and vendor service are discussed, and a directory of vendors is included. (CDD)

Discusses the application of artificial intelligence to online information retrieval systems and describes several systems: (1) CANSEARCH, from MEDLINE; (2) Intelligent Interface for Information Retrieval (I3R); (3) Gausch's Query Reformulation; (4) Environmental Pollution Expert (EP-X); (5) PLEXUS (gardening); and (6) SCISOR (corporate…

Describes results of a CD-ROM Market Study that surveyed public, academic, and special libraries. Highlights include expenditures for CD-ROM versus online databases; budget allocations for CD-ROM; vendors and services; criteria for the selection of a CD-ROM database; the use of online services; local area networks (LANs); number of terminals; and…

A cost analysis of 411 on-line bibliographic search requests was conducted. The average cost was $28.41 exclusive of telephone line charges. (Author)

Retrieval terminals have been placed in four public libraries in Northern California to provide access to sixteen different data bases. The first year of this two-year experiment is described, and some of the technical, organizational, and economic aspects of the study are reviewed. (Author)

The DIALIB project involved an experiment in providing on-line services in four public libraries. Based on three years of experience, in which services were offered both in a free and fee-based environment, nine requirements for online searching are delineated, and guidelines formulated for public libraries contemplating such services. (Author/JPF)

Evaluates the database program SAVVY PC and describes its use in a public library reference department to index a local newspaper. The basic structure of SAVVY and FORTH, the language it's written in, are explained along with how the database is used. Advantages and disadvantages of the system are discussed. (EM)

Reports results of 1983 survey of 25 public libraries and 1981 survey of 11 public libraries, both of which focused on facets of online information services--user fees, databases, documentation, equipment, miscellaneous services, and subject areas searched. The 1983 questionnaire and seven sources are appended. (EJS)

Discusses the issues involved in the development of bilingual access to Spanish and bilingual materials held by libraries serving the Spanish speaking, with special reference to California. A progress report on the endeavors of the California Spanish Language Data Base is given. Four references are listed. (Author/LLS)

A survey of 34 of the largest public library systems, each serving at least 500,000 people, showed: (1) minority offer online database services; (2) cost is major prohibiting factor; (3) New York Times Information Bank is most popular database; (4) fee structures vary; and (5) business organizations are most frequent users. (JD)

Database documentation is provided for users of a data file consisting of a directory of all main public libraries in the United States. The directory development survey began with the mailing of a computer printout containing listings of each state's public libraries to the chief officer of the appropriate state library agency for updating. A…

A data file, consisting of a directory of all main public libraries in the United States, is presented. The data file contains data gathered using a directory development survey that began with the mailing of computer printout listings of each state's public libraries to the chief officer of the appropriate state library agency for updating.…

Discusses the 10 questions most frequently asked concerning the installation of public library online services. Equipment considerations (choice of equipment, maintenance arrangements, baud rate), choice of databases and vendors, budgets, fees, training, elimination of printed tools, and promotion of the service are covered. (EJS)

A study of the responsiveness of two indexes to patrons' requests for health-related information in a public library compares both the results and the costs of searching the same questions in a printed index (Readers' Guide) and a computerized database (Magazine Index). Eighteen references are listed. (RAA)

Discusses the implementation of free online search services at the Mount Vernon Public Library for all registered borrowers of the county library system. Policy decisions and planning, operating procedures, publicity, and usage evaluation are noted. Retrieval procedures, search request forms, and sample searches are appended. (EJS)