Thus far, there is little statistical evidence to show that new technologies have had an appreciable impact on the amount of learning that takes place in schools throughout the country. In order to find some of the causes of this lack and to point out policy questions in this area, the author surveys several issues in the field of new information…

Heavy emphasis was placed on experiments, and interpretation of experimental results. A set of experiments was designed to yield quantitative information on how the experimental subjects used the full-text-access system, why they used it and how effective it was. A detailed report of work on this topic to date is presented. The in-depth analysis…

A six-month study was conducted to determine the library automation system requirements of the North Bay Cooperative Library System in Northern California. Six areas of possible automation were identified: (1) circulation; (2) interlibrary loan; (3) acquisitions; (4) physical processing and cataloging; (5) union catalog; and (6) film booking. Six…

Some 25 library networks in the United States now rely on computers for resource sharing. Library functions that best lend themselves to automated network operation include: cataloging, acquisitions, interlibrary loan, and reference. Progress over the last ten years in collecting and standardizing machine-readable data for library applications…

Some reasons why society is evolving from formal communication based on print or paper to communication channels which are largely paperless (electronic) are discussed. A scenario for a paperless communication system is presented, and some technological achievements that lend credibility to it are described. (Author/JAB)

Computer systems in libraries, which are increasingly cost justifiable, are applicable for circulation, acquisitions, cataloging, and serials. This article describes a college library online circulation system and its potential benefits, which include circulation control, less professional and clerical effort, improved library management, and…

This first in a series of articles outlines general requirements (flexibility, compatibility and control, response time and volume, searching, data entry); functional requirements (acquisitions, circulation, departmental subscriptions, internal and external reports, interlibrary loan, journals/serials, codes, patron); and use of the data…

Describes one medium-sized public library's use of dBase III to control the processing of videocassettes. Reformatting existing files, creating the database, and custom design of the program are explained. (EM)

Discusses the use of microcomputers for automating school libraries, both for entire systems and for specific library tasks. Highlights include available library management software, newsletters that evaluate software, constructing an evaluation matrix, steps to consider in library automation, and a brief discussion of computerized card catalogs.…

Discusses the growing similarities between academic libraries and computing centers and proposes an organizational model for the union of the two into an information services center. The administrative and personnel implications of such a union are addressed. (Author/CLB)

Discussion of basic telecommunications concepts includes data terminal equipment, carrier equipment and data communications equipment. Guidelines offered for librarians planning the implementation of a telecommunications network address reliability and costs of equipment, requirements of the system, and ease of use of the system. (CLB)

Presents a model for predicting and shaping the impact of information technologies on libraries and the library role which is based on the effects of computerization in various business applications. The library network at AT&T Bell Laboratories is described as an example of a successful implementation of the model. (CLB)

This annotated bibliography contains citations for over 70 recently published journal articles, reports, and monographs on the subject of optical disks. Items are arranged alphabetically by author with annotations plus additional notes where appropriate. (CLB)

Describes telefacsimile (FAX) technology and discusses the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania project which is planning to implement a FAX network for member libraries. Guidelines for FAX use within Pennsylvania are included, and sidebar reviews recent developments in FAX add-ons, standalones, and applications. (MES)

Describes the recent history of technical services organizations with an emphasis on their labor intensive approach, and offers alternative solutions to technical services staffing needs. Methods suggested include changes that will result in smaller staffs, greater reliance on clerks and paraprofessionals, and a shift of funding to public service…