Discusses future possibilities for information technology in public libraries, particularly in view of decreasing computer costs and developmental trends in data processing. The technological developments of the Pikes Peak Regional Library are outlined as an example of feasibility. (CWM)

Describes the advances in telecommunications and compact storage technologies that make it possible for electronic bookmobiles to provide a full range of information services. The feasibility of the widespread use of such bookmobiles is considered in view of the high cost of the technologies involved. (19 references) (CLB)

Describes the collection of the Local History Department of the Central Library in Aberdeen (which includes 2,300 volumes of locally produced newspapers and 101,000 sheets of press cuttings) and the use of an optical disk system to help solve the problems of storage and access to these materials. (CLB)

In a continuing effort to reduce costs and improve internal processes, the Glendale Public Library's book charging and overdue determination system has been examined and an improved method conceived which will free badly needed labor hours within the library. It is proposed that the present photocharging transaction card system be kept, but the…

Analyzes trends in the library automation marketplace. Market shares for online vendors are examined in terms of total installations, academic libraries, public libraries, revenues, differently sized systems, and foreign installations. Hardware availability, operating systems, and interfaces with MARC are also discussed for each vendor. A source…

This report of a study to determine the economic feasibility of automating catalog production and maintenance for a public library system includes a description of the manual catalog system in use and requirements of the new system. Assessment of benefits and costs were determined for three alternative approaches: (1) retention of the card…

This examination of the feasibility of implementing an automated circulation system within San Mateo County's Peninsula Library System (PLS) was undertaken to determine if the system should automate material circulation systemwide in order to reduce operating costs while improving circulation procedures and increasing patron access to system…

Adams Memorial Library (Pennsylvania) and Wichita Public Library Comotara Branch (Kansas) are examples of libraries that successfully partnered with supermarkets to house their facilities. Library services are automated, convenient, and make access easier for users. Conflicts occurred when trying to match library hours with store hours, but such…

Outline of basic requirements needed to outfit a small public library with microcomputers discusses necessary equipment, cost effectiveness, management information systems, statistics generated, software available, and library procedures to be automated. Fifteen references are cited. (EJS)

Describes programs and services offered by the 20-branch Columbus and Franklin County Public Library System, highlighting budgetary considerations, library administration, effect of technological advancements (i.e., circulation of videotape recorders, automated circulation system), innovative library programs, and contributions made by library…

Discusses the role of advanced technology in developing new library systems and facilities. Considers the impact of computers on acquisition, reproduction, and availability of material in both general-use libraries and special research facilities, particularly in terms of cost. (JMF)

A cost/benefit analysis of the Public Library Automation Network (PLAN) project was undertaken to evaluate those areas in library technical processing impacted by BALLOTS: searching the data base for catalog copy; cataloging with MARC or original catalog copy input by participating libraries; data entry of original records and modification of…

Describes a network for interlibrary loans among public libraries in Ontario which includes microcomputer workstations, online searching of remote databases for verification and locations, and the use of electronic mail. The discussion covers the pilot project, its evaluation, cost effectiveness, extension of the network, and future plans.…

The economic implications of new technology in public libraries include its cost, the trade-off between costs and benefits, and sources of funds. The cost of, for example, a new terminal, should be subdivided into components and activities so that library expenditures and some resultant output can be clearly identified. In addition, when…

Describes automated library network developed when five municipal library systems entered into an equal partnership to create single database and to jointly own a computerized circulation and MARC records system. Highlights include use of microcomputers, the shared circulation system, costs, benefits, governance, equality, stability and financial…