In 2008 and 2009, the Edmonton Public Library (EPL), where the author works as an information professional, completed a $6 million CDN (about $5.7 million) RFID conversion project with the installation of automated check-in and sorting equipment at six of its 17 service points. The sorters currently handle about 55% of EPL's system's total…

The design and study of library information networks are enhanced by the use of the concepts which have been developed by graph theorists. In this paper this theme is expanded upon, proposing a general network structure which is believed to be a good model for a wide variety of library and other information networks. The basic concepts from graph…

The potential for using a computerized communication system to facilitate resource sharing in New England has been investigated by the staff of the New England Information Network (NELINET). The central purpose of their research was to determine whether a strategy for load leveling of interlibrary loan (ILL) requests could be implemented online as…

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…

Places the cost considerations associated with public library automation in a framework of public finance comfortable to most administrators, discusses the importance of experience with use patterns in the electronic library in opening up new and innovative financing methods, and stresses the role of the library in the information industry. (JL)

This report addresses alternative means of interconnecting or providing access to the various automated systems within the 17-member North Bay Cooperative Library System (NBC), with emphasis on providing information on the availability of materials for loan, the principal objective of the NBC Telecommunications Project, Year Two. Advantages and…

The 16 articles in this issue focus on planning for future trends in public library administration. Topics discussed include leadership qualities; administrator education; collective bargaining; funding and budgeting; governance; user fees; collection management; community involvement and support; special population groups; services to educational…