Describes three stages of the automation of information processing systems by combining the concept of the exponential growth of operational capabilities with three characteristics: computational capability, ability to store data, and ability to communicate data. The growth of fiberoptic technology is described as beginning the third stage. (EM)

Discusses the impact of new technologies on library operations and management, and the need for librarians to understand how to manage technology and utilize it to improve library services. The areas which library education should address to prepare librarians to deal effectively with new technologies are outlined. (CLB)

This study focuses on the growth of the library automation market from 1981 to 1990. It draws on library automation data published annually in the Library Journal between 1981 and 1990. The data are used to examine: (1) the overall library system market trends based on the total and cumulative number of systems installed and revenue generated; (2)…

Reviews the growth of library networks and bibliographic utilities, and describes the concept of a national bibliographic network. The impact of microcomputers, the increased computer literacy of librarians, preferences for local autonomy, and the availability of commercial online services on the desire for a national system are discussed. (CLB)

A Public Library Association (PLA) survey compiled information on public libraries in bibliographic networks. Aspects identified and measured were perceptions of participation, reasons for non-participation, reactions to services, and suggestions for increasing participation. Recommendations are made for actions by PLA and the networks to ensure…

Summaries of presentations made at the Technology at the Library of Congress conference held in May 1986 describe new technologies that the library is applying to its programs and services, including advances in bibliographic control; automated acquisitions systems; computer-to-computer communications; linking of national bibliographic utilities;…

Presents a summary of the history of academic library automation, and discusses some of the technological trends which are important to the development of an electronic library. Topics discussed include public services vs. technical services; cataloging and classification; serials control; computer networks; cooperative projects, including…

The Interlibrary Cooperation Committee of the Public Library Association researched the literature to study trends in library networking over the last two decades, including increased cooperation among different types of libraries and legislation supporting this trend. Changes found are reported in two articles covering technology, governance,…

Discusses the concept of a virtual library. Current systems are described, as well as pilot projects; administrative concerns are addressed, including cooperative collection development and networking; work of the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI) is discussed; and the National Research and Education Network (NREN) is described. (17…

Four papers prepared under the Robert Vosper Fellowship Program of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and delivered at the 1992 annual meeting are presented. "International Cooperation in the Field of Name Authority Data: Observations and Recommendations" (Francoise Bourdon) presents an early…

This discussion of possible future applications of machine translation of Asian language materials by library information systems focuses on the current technology, potential users, the necessary standardization of equipment and language representations, an existing information network that provides a database of Asian materials, and available…

Three papers address the future of libraries and the role of OCLC. Highlights include changes in public libraries, including access to information and technological changes; electronic information systems and their integration with print systems; interlibrary loan; cooperative collection development; and service to the managerial and professional…