This introduction to a new column on small automated library systems presents the author's credentials and discusses the topics to be considered, including automation needs of smaller libraries, microcomputer-based systems, network access, implications of automation for administration and staffing, and automation-related problems. (EA)

This special section on EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) in libraries includes eight articles that discuss experiences in libraries in the United Kingdom, EDI and the acquisitions process in Europe, a Canadian viewpoint, the ILS (Integrated Library Systems) vendor and EDI, public libraries, and EDI in the information services industry. (LRW)

This four-part report describes the development of a plan for Hennepin County (Minnesota) Library's (HCL) next steps in the automation of operations including the public catalog, cataloging, circulation control, and acquisitions. The objectives of the plan were to improve patron access to materials and to provide for cost effective operations.…

Reports the results of a survey of integrated library system vendors that examined installations in Canadian academic, public and special libraries during 1989. Findings discussed include large library system versus PC-based system market shares, an analysis of system selection by type of library, and other factors that affect system selection. A…

Discusses "technolust" (i.e., obsession with computer technology) in librarians. Topics addressed include library automation, the concept of the virtual library, and recruitment of readers as the primary role of the public library. It is predicted that books and libraries will continue to be a vital part of the community. (EA)

A cross-section of libraries in the United Kingdom was surveyed to investigate the prevalence of systems librarians and their education, work experience, duties, and professional activities. Preliminary findings of one section of the questionnaire indicate that systems librarians are generally associated with larger institutions that have large…

Reports results of a survey of vendors of large and microcomputer-based integrated library systems. Data presented on Canadian installations include total systems installed, comparisons with earlier years, market segments, and installations by type of library (excluding school). International sales and automation requirements for music are…

Presents results of interviews with automation administrators of 39 public and academic libraries that recently migrated to new automated systems. Topics discussed include motivation for migration, planning for implementation, technical decisions and considerations, training, publicity, and relations with vendors. A list of participating libraries…

Describes a survey of public and academic libraries in Ohio that was conducted to examine the processes used to select and implement integrated library systems. Machine readable records are discussed, the computer environment in libraries is described, and satisfaction with the systems is examined. (eight references) (LRW)

Describes automation and networking activities among Delaware libraries, including integrated library systems for public libraries, the Delaware Technical and Community College telecommunications network, Delaware Public Library Internet access planning, digital resources, a computer/technology training center, and the Delaware Center for…

Discusses the results of the fifth annual survey of integrated library systems in Canadian public, academic, and special libraries. Highlights include systems based on personal computers; bilingual systems; the use of consultants; differences between Canadian and U.S. markets; Canadian international sales; and vendor information. (LRW)

This followup to a 1981 study presents descriptions of automated projects or activities in academic, public, and special libraries or information centers in the Greater Sao Paulo region that developed from 1981 through 1987. It is noted that an overall increase in the level of automation since 1981 has been observed. (four references) (Author/MAB)

Reports the results of a study that surveyed online vendors of both large and microcomputer based library management systems to examine patterns of system installation in public, university, college, special, and government libraries in Canada. A directory of online vendors is provided. (CLB)

Describes how a public library consortium jettisoned the Request for Proposal (RFP) process and used library staff, with some assistance from consultants, to evaluate new automation systems based on software demonstrations and Requests for Quotations (RFQ). The RFQ and RFP processes are compared. A sidebar article describes the financing plan.…

Presents results of a study that examined the kinds of statistics on children's services collected by state library agencies and juvenile circulation statistics collected by individual libraries. Data on libraries are compared according to the size of the library; and the incidence of automated systems for various sizes of libraries is reported.…