Outlines a database constructed at Philip Morris Research Center Library which encompasses holdings and circulation and acquisitions records for all items in the library. Host computer (DECSYSTEM-2060), software (BASIC), database design, search methodology, cataloging, and accessibility are noted; sample search, circ-in profile, end user profiles,…

Describes the process of implementing an online circulation control system in a multidisciplinary Canadian university. Included are origins of the system, agreement with the area library network, ordering equipment, planning and preparing the physical site, the use of barcode labels, student identification cards, activation of the system, and…

Interviews were conducted with the heads of 11 business branches of major public libraries to examine how these experts view the future of the public library in the electronically dominated information environment of the future. Eleven references and a list of librarians interviewed are appended. (Author/EJS)

Describes potential uses of microcomputers in library education and library automation based upon experiences with a four-user Altos ACS8000 microcomputer at the University of Chicago Graduate Library School. Word processing, training in online information retrieval using MIRABILIS (Microsystem for Interactive Bibliographic Searching), and…

Reviews the questions and issues which must be addressed as libraries enter an age in which the development of online catalogs for library users is becoming more feasible. Viability of online catalogs, current activities in catalog development, variables involved in catalog design, and the potential of online systems are discussed. (JL)

Presents responses to some commonly-asked questions about the development of "Computer Cat," a microcomputer-based online catalog system in a Colorado elementary school learning resources center. Computer knowledge required to implement such a system, hardware selection, hardware requirements, student use of the system, and educational…

This description of the functional characteristics of 20 online public catalogs in libraries in the United States notes their origin and scope, search methods, access points, search commands, record displays, user assistance, database and technical characteristics, and costs. Six references and illustrative material are provided. (EJS)

Discusses current issues in the design of information systems, noting contributions from three professions--computer science, human factors engineering, and information science. The eclectic nature of human factors engineering and the difficulty of drawing together studies with human engineering or software psychological components from diverse…

Description of Research Libraries Information Network, an automated technical processing and information retrieval system, notes subsystems (acquisitions, cataloging, message, print, tables), functions, design, and benefits to participating libraries. (Request complimentary subscription on institution letterhead from Editor, "Perspectives in…

This study of 23 academic libraries investigated variables which affect (and to what extent they affect) librarians' perceptions or evaluations of OCLC as an innovative system. Job security was identified as the single most important factor in technological change. Hypotheses of the study and the survey questionnaire are appended. (EJS)

Discussion of microcomputer applications in a medium-sized school library highlights planning, computer software functions, circulation processes, reference services, print reports (bibliographies, overdue book notices, circulation analysis), special functions, equipment needs, and funding possibilities. (EJS)

The Graduate Funding Resource System, a relatively inexpensive solution to the problem of identifying potential financial support for graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty at the University of Washington is described. Plans are underway to offer the search service on a wider basis. (MLW)

Describes a program written in VS BASIC which was created for the online tabulation, summarization, and display of information on collection size for an academic library and compares its performance with that of SAS (Statistical Analysis System). Nine figures compare tables produced by the two systems, and two references are given. (RAA)

Discusses the effective use of stack space through weeding, storage, microfilm, and selection; study space based on student population; and service space by reorganization of staff, collections, and study space. Three references are noted. (CHC)

Includes Lukac's overview of an online acquisition system, Robert Newhard on information and ordinary living, Theodore Bolton on interactive home television, a survey of the CTI computer backup system by Joseph Covino and Sheila Intner, and three articles about catalogs and cataloging by Kenneth Bierman, Herbert Hoffman, and Judith Hudson. (RAA)