This overview of CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory) technology covers technical specifications as well as applications of special interest to teachers, school administrators, and librarians. Materials available on CD-ROM disks are described, including a variety of reference works, and a directory of publishers/producers is provided. Issues of…

This digest discusses advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM use in libraries and information centers and lists features of three CD-ROM versions of the ERIC database--Dialog OnDisc ERIC, OCLC Search CD450, and SilverPlatter ERIC. Brief descriptions of these products focus on the differences among them, including equipment requirements, search…

This digest discusses advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM use in libraries and information centers and lists features of three CD-ROM versions of the ERIC database--Dialog OnDisc ERIC, OCLC Search CD450, and SilverPlatter ERIC. Brief descriptions of these products focus on the differences among them, including equipment requirements, search…

Describes the implementation of a project that provides dial-up access to MEDLINE on remote optical data disk (CD-ROM) using software that enables callers to use programs like Wordstar, Lotus, and dBase. Highlights include networking CD-ROM databases, hardware considerations, advantages and disadvantages of remote access, and future plans. A…

Describes an evaluative project in which a prototype bibliographic database on optical data disk was installed in six developing country libraries and a Canadian library. The results of the project are discussed in terms of user satisfaction and cost effectiveness, and recommendations are made to donor agencies, information providers, and…

Describes the situation at the Texas A and M University Library that led to the decision to provide demonstrations of CD-ROM databases outside of the library setting. The equipment requirements, microcomputer selection, and use of large screen projectors are discussed, and guidelines are provided for organizing a transportable demonstration…

The experience of novice users searching SilverPlatter's ERIC CD-ROM on the Macintosh was studied. Ten students from an introductory master's level course in library and information science were recruited as volunteer subjects. Subjects were asked to complete a search on the ERIC CD-ROM; and data were collected via observations, a think-aloud…

Description of the use of CD-ROM technology at the Vanderbilt University libraries focuses on the impact on library staff and on students and faculty. Hardware and databases are discussed, training of student assistants and end users is described, and patron and faculty survey results are reviewed. (LRW)