In a year when a difficult economy presented fewer opportunities for immediate gains, the major industry players have defined their business strategies with fundamentally different concepts of library automation. This is no longer an industry where companies compete on the basis of the best or the most features in similar products but one where…

Provides an introduction to CD-ROM technology, its advantages and disadvantages, and sources of information for locating and evaluating CD-ROMs. Types of CD-ROMs described include reference sources, utility tools for professionals, public access catalogs, directories, public domain and shareware, clip art, curriculum materials, and multimedia…

Discusses ability of small computers to hold interface programs, to retrieve data from central source, to manipulate and present that data, and to engage in dialog with system user. An example of a feasible dialog between user and system which mediates and translates user's data into machine terms is highlighted. (EJS)

Explains rationale behind proposed voluntary U.S. standard computerized library catalog called the "Uniform Catalog." Design goals (should mimic manual card catalog, offer simplicity of operation and low overhead, permit modular growth to more advanced catalog), sample search, and nine commands and functions used by "Uniform…

This paper provides a brief comparative summary of the results of U.S. and European studies on the use of CD-ROM and other optical products in all types of libraries and information centers. In 1987 and 1988, questionnaires were distributed to academic, public, and special libraries in the United States and to libraries in 18 European countries:…

This investigation of library employees who spend significant portion of time in online computer interaction provides information on intellectual, psychological, social, and physical aspects of their work. Long- and short-term effects of special libraries are identified and solutions to "technostress" problems are suggested. (16…

This detailed description of a fully integrated, turnkey library system includes a complete profile of the system (functions, operational characteristics, hardware, operating system, minimum memory and pricing); history of the technologies involved; and descriptions of customer services and availability. (CLB)

Argues that reference services will not only survive changes brought about by new technologies, but will be improved and enhanced as a result. Examples given include online public access catalogs, automated record-keeping operations, CD-ROM as an information storage medium, the continuing need for intermediaries in online searching, and copyright…

Academic library computing systems, which are among the most complex found in academic environments, now include external systems, such as online commercial search services and nationwide networks, and local systems that control and support internal operations. As librarians have realized the benefit of using computer systems to perform…

Describes technological advances in hardware and software used for managing school library media centers. Topics discussed include library management systems; system enhancements in microcomputers; library-specific software; CD ROMs; local area networks; online services; administrative applications; and a brief review of criteria for automating…

Discusses the impact of electronic publishing, information networks, and new ways of accessing information on libraries. It is noted that the virtual library will still need human direction and that librarians' primary responsibilities will be in finding knowledge and teaching. (EA)

Examines some of the fears, frustrations, and misconceptions of library staff and patrons that hamper the effective use of computers in libraries. Strategies that library administrators could use to alleviate stress are outlined, including staff participation in the automation process, well-designed workstations, and adequate training for staff…

The Open Library Network (OBN) is intended to connect national and local university library systems in the Netherlands. OBN integrates existing automated library systems and procedures and brings services like catalog searching and document delivery to the desk of the library user. Project results can be grouped into four categories: (1) the new…

This paper presents the results of an empirical survey conducted in the winter of 1995-96 among 413 Danish Internet users (business people, higher education/research and students). Data from a recent Danish Mediacenter Internet survey (n=2981) are also included. Findings indicate that women tend to use the Internet to solve well-defined problems,…

Discusses influences that electronic technologies are having on academic libraries. Highlights include the combination of computer technology and telecommunications; the impact of integrated systems; adding value to information through the use of workstations and online databases; teaching and learning roles of librarians; library user fees; and…