Considers a study of two models of name/title-derived search keys in a large online library network. Results predicted by the models are compared with results obtained from actual retrieval behavior of keys entered by users of the system. (FM)

Comments based on actual reference use of Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--formerly BALLOTS--in a library environment focus on RLIN files, interlibrary loan, search keys, and subject searches. This article updates a description of BALLOTS as it was developed by Stanford University to support cataloging and acquisitions (Online,…

This report presents an analysis of the search query arguments of several major bibliographic utilities and shows the commonalities and differences of the query structure among the various systems. The report illustrates a symbolic metalanguage that was developed to describe and compare the search arguments. In addition, status and error messages…

A training and reference tool for searchers in the Preorder Section of Cornell's Olin Library Acquisitions Department, this manual establishes the rationale for searching operations and includes illustrations as well as detailed explanations of searching procedures and problems. The information given applies only to the searching of monographs,…

Describes design and implementation of the Research Libraries Information Network Reports System, which provides generalized computer programs for selecting MARC records and preparing bibliographic lists. Discussion includes overview of list production, establishing control languages, selection (library and status filtering, logical filtering,…

Explanation of enhancements of a new version of the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--originally called BALLOTS-- focuses on reference applications of what is primarily a technical processing system, e.g., complementing searches, verification, union catalog, and interlibrary loan. Illustrative examples are provided. (EJS)

Explores methods and costs of the retrospective conversion process, i.e., converting card catalog records into machine readable form to create an automated catalog. Data conversion standards, methods, search strategy, databases, verification and editing, costs, and products of conversion are noted. Thirty-two references are cited. (EJS)

Three separate articles describe the online union catalog developed and implemented at the University of California to enhance public access. Planning for library automation, development and production of the database, access points to the catalog, the patron interface, standardizing input data, and merging records are discussed. References are…

Prepared for consideration by the Network Technical Architecture Group (NTAG), a subcommittee of the Library of Congress (LC) Network Advisory Group, this document describes the study and development of text formats for the message delivery system of a nationwide library bibliographic network. Following a discussion of network considerations of…

The Program Session of the April 1984 meeting of the Library of Congress Network Advisory Committee (NAC) was devoted to discussion of electronic information delivery systems. Recent developments in six areas were covered: (1) electronic manuscript generation and transmission; (2) online full-text searching and retrieval; (3) online database…

Developed from presentations given at a 3-day invitational meeting of 31 leading online catalog designers from both public and private sectors in North America, these papers provide information about online catalogs--their present form, their use, and the questions that need to be considered in their future refinement. All of the papers in this…

Through a single computerized system, the Libraries Information Access System provides interactive, integrated access to a range of information functions in support of services meeting both academic needs (bibliographic access for research, instructional support) and administrative needs (processing, inventory control, communications, record…

Describes the online catalog in a university library, including the database, the database index, user instruction, the command language and search capabilities, functions of various commands, statistics generated to monitor system use, and hardware for both public access and staff use. (CHC)

Through descriptions of widely available and helpful sources to find answers about North American Indians, this article highlights some basic library sources such as reference books, reference librarians, electronic indexes, on-line databases, and periodic indexes. In finding books owned by the library about North American Indians, the use of the…

The Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations Using a Time-sharing System (BALLOTS) is a computer-based interactive system which supports the acquisition, cataloging, and bibliographic searching processes in the Stanford University Libraries. This document provides extensive descriptions of: (1) the BALLOTS system, (2) its files and…