Describes the methods used to create secondary publications, and discusses the respective roles of and relationships between primary and secondary publications, emphasizing the symbiotic nature of the two. Related copyright legislation and cases in both the United States and other countries are reviewed. (CLB)

Discusses four kinds of computerized access tools: online catalogs; computerized reference; online database searching; and compact disks and read only memory (CD-ROM). Examines how these technologies are changing research. Suggests how research instruction in advanced writing courses can be refocused to include the new technologies. (RS)

Describes a study that compared the coverage of the nursing profession, subject heading specificity, and ease of retrieval of the MEDLINE and Nursing & Allied Health (CINAHL) online databases. The strengths and weaknesses of each database are discussed and hints for searching on both databases are provided. (four references) (CLB)

Discusses the emerging need of users for bulk numerical, graphic, and textual information, and describes a range of tools available for information reduction and restructuring, and the conversion of data into information. Some of the tools described include graphics databases, hypertext applications, and search systems that utilize relationships,…

Describes a survey of publishers and database producers that examined their activities regarding the retention and storage of electronic material, and access to that material. The discussion covers the archival life of various electronic media, standards relating to electronic publishing, and initiatives in electronic archiving. The questionnaires…

Compares three methods of data entry available to database producers--keyboarding, optical scanners, and electronic input--in terms of turnaround time, accuracy, and cost. It is concluded that, although the trend is toward electronic submission, all three methods will remain as viable options in the foreseeable future. (CLB)

Argues that organizations need to integrate information systems, database management systems, and telecommunications in order to effectively manage and move information. Well-established frameworks in each of these areas are described and a new integrated framework is presented. A descriptive example is used to illustrate the power of the…

Examines the major federal and state laws that govern the privacy aspects of the use of computer databases in three areas: private institutions, state and local governments, and the federal government. The ability of existing privacy laws to prevent abusive information collection, dissemination, and management practices is evaluated. (four…

Describes UNIX, a computer operating system that supports multi-task and multi-user operations. Characteristics that make it especially suitable for library applications are discussed, including a hierarchical file structure and utilities for text processing, database activities, and bibliographic work. Sources of information on hardware…

Describes the benefits of using DIALOG's OneSearch in conjunction with DIALINDEX when searching online databases. Interdisciplinary searching on multiple databases is discussed, time and cost comparisons are briefly addressed, and steps involved in a simple search and in a complex search are detailed. (LRW)

Discusses the importance of British databases and information services to U.S. business searchers and describes several British databases and services. Topics covered include database contents, available search strategies, access from the United States, language differences, and dating problems. A directory of contacts is provided. (six…

Reviews the theory, background, and general applications of hypertext and describes the design of Glasgow Online, an integrated database of information on the life and times of the city. Problems with the design of an interface for non-expert users and possible models for structuring information and establishing links are discussed. (12…

Describes new CD-ROM products, services, software and data enhancements, and products with unique or interesting features. The discussion covers the extent of CD-ROM use in libraries; issues relating to networking, budgeting, evaluation, training and licensing; and factors to consider when selecting products or services. A directory of producers…

Describes available forms of laserdisk technology and discusses the current status of equipment standards and a common retrieval engine. The potential application of laserdisk technology to legal information management is discussed in the areas of research, writing, forms management, law library storage, litigation support, records management,…

Investigates the value of applying principles derived from simulated annealing to clustering tuples in database design, and compares this technique with a graph-collapsing clustering method. It is concluded that, while the new method does give superior results, the expense involved in algorithm run time is prohibitive. (24 references) (CLB)