Older computer applications are often caught in cycles where maintenance and operation become increasingly expensive, yet replacement costs are prohibitive. Massachusetts Institute of Technology developed a strategic approach toward enhancing an existing alumni/fund-raising/gifts system to extend its life and avoid the capital costs associated…

Compares, contrasts, and critiques predictions that have been made about the future of research libraries, focusing on the impact of technology on the library's role and users' needs. The discussion includes models for the adaptation of new technologies that may assist in library planning and change. (38 references) (CLB)

Describes the results of projects exploring the potential of information technology for delivering health care. Describes a proposed project coupling the telephone with computerized audiotext responses, which would provide elderly patients with information, contact, and reassurance. (SR)

Assesses BRUNET, a campuswide network that links more than 100 academic and administrative buildings and 40 dormitories. Notes a key element is hierarchical network management and support. Discusses the deployment, security, and use of four networking spheres in the system. (MVL)

In the University of Massachusetts' multicampus system, an integrated suite of technologies called PRO*CAST provides administrators, planners, and policymakers with access to timely, accurate information to support decision making and monitor progress toward established goals. The system is structured as an information warehouse with executive…

Discusses three ethical and legal challenges of technology: issues of accessibility and equality, the appropriateness of materials available to young people on the Internet, and matters relating to copyright and the licensing of software users. States that educators and parents must make a collaborative effort to address these concerns. (DJM)

Provides a fictitious journal from an ideal technology-enhanced student activity in the future based on existing network-based projects developed over the last five years. Illustrates how technology can enhance learning in ways such as encouraging reform, providing tools for thinking, expanding educational possibilities, and supporting classroom…

Report on a peer-reviewed, interactive electronic journal focuses on stages of its development; features of two available access points--an ASCII interface called EPS (Electronic Publishing Service) and a graphical interface called Guidon; advantages of Guidon access over simple electronic file transfer; and planned improvements. (Contains five…

Describes the International Counselor Network (ICN), an electronic mail (e-mail) discussion group operating on the Internet. Discusses the potential for communication, information sharing, and collaboration. Provides examples of professional communication and resource sharing via ICN as well as instructions on how to join. (JBJ)

Discusses the concept of electronic workstations and describes four different types: (1) the academic workstation; (2) the reference workstation (i.e., for end users); (3) the information specialist workstation; and (4) the workstation for management information. The creation of a new integrated information center (ICC) is also described. (11…

Reviews online and CD-ROM environmental information sources that focus on business, governmental regulations, and environmental issues. Business databases, environmental databases, environmental audit software packages, and electronic bulletin boards are included. (22 references) (LAE)

Describes the design of a prototype adaptive online catalog that was implemented as a transparent workstation-based front end system to MELVYL, the online catalog for the University of California libraries. Problems with searching bibliographic retrieval systems are reviewed, including irrelevant retrievals and the inexperience of most users.…

Reports results of an electronic survey of users of CD-ROM databases at a university library. Data are presented on experience level, database selection, how users learned of the service, use of multiple databases, favorite features, user satisfaction, preferred source of help, research strategies, and use of printed versions. A copy of the…

Discusses virtual libraries, i.e., library services available to users via personal computers; considers the issues of technological development, user demands, and organizational response; and describes progress toward virtual libraries in the Netherlands, including networks, online systems, navigation tools, subject classification, coordination…

Presents abstracts of 34 special interest group (SIG) sessions. Highlights include humanities scholars and electronic texts; information retrieval and indexing systems design; automated indexing; domain analysis; query expansion in document retrieval systems; thesauri; business intelligence; Americans with Disabilities Act; management;…