Presents overview of library uses of automation, noting the earliest example of a "black box" in 1588, the "indicator" invented in England in 1863, various forms of card catalogs, and computer solutions posed by Vannevar Bush, J. C. R. Licklider, Project Intrex, and John G. Kemeny. Ten references are cited. (EJS)

Six articles address: (1) the impact of science on the physical examination and treatment of books; (2) equipment for physical examination of books; (3) research using the cyclotron for historical analysis; (4) scientific analysis of paper and ink in early maps; (5) recent advances in automation; and (6) cataloging standards. (MES)

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)…

Discussion of the use of inexpensive microcomputers in local area information networks (LAN) notes such minicomputer problems as costs, capacity, downtime, and vendor dependence, and the advantages of using LAN in offices and libraries, less costly LAN upgrades, library vendors and LAN systems, and LAN problems. A 28-item bibliography is provided.…

This report describing the current and future use of online automation technology in Connecticut libraries provides recommendations designed to assist Connecticut libraries in making more effective use of current systems, in selecting the most appropriate new systems, and by providing a basis for effective statewide planning that will take…

Compares results of a 1998 survey concerning university library support staff perceptions and opinions about technological change to results of a similar survey administered to the same population in 1988. Offers the evolving perceptions, opinions, and suggestions of these library personnel as a resource for better planning of library automation…

This paper examines the likely effects of technological developments on the planning of American academic library buildings during the 1980's and shares Richard Snyder's experiences in the design and construction of a new library building at Drexel University in Pennsylvania. Descriptions of general, economic, policy, psychological, and…

Reports results of survey of methods used by 77 North American academic and public libraries to finance implementation of new technologies, replace equipment and furniture, and renovate buildings. Financing methods used, frequency of use, choice, and range of methods are discussed. Eight references and list of survey participants are appended.…

The 15-year history of the development of library automation is traced, and four major obstacles which had to be overcome are identified: the lack of funds for development, programing, and testing; the need for a common data base; the need for cooperative arrangements among institutions; and the need for widely-available on-line processing. Seven…

Existing technologies that may have to be accommodated in libraries of the future include: microform catalogs, on-line catalogs, automated circulation systems, automated acquisition systems, video equipment, on-line reference services, facsimile transmission devices, microform reader-printers, and on-line cataloging terminals. Most of these…

Eleven papers delivered at the annual meeting of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions for the Division of Management and Technology are presented. Some were presented at a roundtable on audiovisual media, and others are from sessions on library buildings and equipment, information management, and statistics in…

This report describes the development, design, and evaluation of an online circulation system at the University of Guelph, Ontario. A 1976 study identified the specific problems or inadequacies of the existing circulation system and specified design requirements for a new online system. This 1978 report is divided into six parts: (1) historical…