Provides a technological overview of CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), an optically-based medium for data storage offering large storage capacity, computer-based delivery system, read-only medium, and economic mass production. CD-ROM database attributes appropriate for information delivery are also reviewed, including large database size,…

Discusses the wide variety of installation standards currently maintained by publishers of CD-ROM databases and the problems this can cause for users. Hardware and software requirements of various CD-ROM databases intended for use on IBM personal computers and compatibles are described. (five references) (CLB)

Discusses the need for user oriented optical storage systems to deal with information storage in offices, and describes the Megadoc system. The features described include hardware configurations, microcomputer applications, the ability to read microfilm or microfiche documents, equipment standards, and current systems software. (CLB)

Describes compact disk technology in general and possible library applications, including cataloging, online bibliographic searching, and full text searching, and compares the purchase of optical disk packages to traditional online services. Guidelines are provided for evaluating optical disks which focus on the size of the database, updating…

Discusses library applications of several specific CD-ROM products, including library catalogs, book reviews, databases, encyclopedias, and interactive video programs. Such factors as cost effectiveness, ease of use, and user satisfaction are discussed, and a bibliography of books about CD-ROM is provided. (CLB)

Centers on the current interest of using CD-ROM for text retrieval. Describes the digital video interactive (DVI) system which integrates graphics, audio, and video images with text. Explores why CD-ROM use by scientists is limited. (MVL)