A listing is presented of 17 documents in the ERIC database concerning the Online Catalog (sometimes referred to as OPAC or Online Public Access Catalog), a computer-based and supported library catalog designed for patron use. The database usually represents recent acquisitions and often contains information about books on order and items in…

Briefly reviews the current developments in public access catalogs and poses questions for the public service librarian. (FM)

This set of summaries of problems and issues pertaining to the selection and implementation of automated integrated library information systems (AILS) deals with such topics as the nature of integrated library systems, the rationale for installing such systems, automated systems operations, available technology, and options for obtaining the…

Discusses the integration of subject pathfinders into online public access catalogs (OPAC) through following features: within the OPAC, offline user guide manuals, remotely printed upon user request, or online as saved searches displayed in help screen format. Excerpts of a pathfinder display for biotechnology are presented. Four sources are…

Assesses the current state of reference structures in online public access catalogs (OPACs) in a framework defined by stagnation, progress, and future challenges. Outlines six areas for reference structure development. Twenty figures provide illustrations. (AEF)

Discusses the impact of local online databases on library reference services, including their integration with remote files such as Dialog, Orbit, and the Information Bank. Online catalog databases, multiple local databases (analytics for journal articles, indexes), and batch processing of data are noted. Six references are cited. (EJS)

Provides overview of the materials available for the reference librarian on the topic of online services. General works and introductions, bibliographies, directories, periodicals, articles on specific topics, and online catalogs are covered. Forty-five references are included. (EJS)

The current status of MELVYL, the University of California's prototype online catalog, is described in a hypothetical conversation between the catalog and several users. Examples illustrate features of the two search modes available for this patron-accessed system: COMMAND for the novice, and the more sophisticated LOOKUP. (RBF)

Five articles discuss information technology in libraries: (1) "Software for Libraries" (Katharine Phenix); (2) "Online Update: European Online Services" (Martin Kesselman); (3) "Connect Time: Online Pricing Breakthroughs" (Barbara Quint); (4) "Microcomputing: Micro Biology Computer Viruses" (James LaRue);…

Describes how genealogists visiting the Library of Congress can use Library of Congress Information System (LOCIS) to identify genealogies in library's collections. Search strategies within two LOCIS systems--Multiple-Use MARC System (MUMS) and Subject-Oriented-Retriever for Processing Information Online (SCORPIO)--and the PREMARC database for…

Discussion of growth trends involving use of new technology in the library (mainly computers and their devices) outlines recent advances in Canada, discusses current activities, and presents views of library functions 10 years from now. Issues and questions are presented and their impact on the library profession is discussed. (EJS)

Discusses the definition of an online library catalog; five factors to be considered by the online catalog designer; user-computer communication (error messages, help screens, prompts, unnatural language); online tutorials and offline instruction offered by bibliographic instruction librarians; and the current situation. Nine references are…

Argues that libraries will become extinct in the future if they do not take on a more active role in serving the information needs of patrons, and advocates the development of expertise at switching centers for electronic information. Seven references are listed. (LLS)

Provides generalizations and offers speculations about online library catalogs based on experiences of the Division of Library Automation, University of California, noting cataloging for access, rediscovering serial analytics, document delivery, electronic publishing, remote public access, circulation systems, and reference services. Four…

Describes online information systems that have been developed for community access. Systems available in cities around the country are explained and include electronic bulletin boards, local government information, human services information, library online catalogs, commercial databases, and electronic mail. Possible levels of library involvement…