Describes the National Agricultural Library's microcomputer-based expert system, which is designed to help users obtain answers to simple reference questions. Building of the system and its linking to external programs and systems are explained, and building of a total information system is proposed. Samples of the program are provided. (CDD)

Discusses criteria for evaluating microcomputer database management systems (DBMS) used for storage and retrieval of bibliographic data. Two popular types of microcomputer DBMS--file management systems and relational database management systems--are evaluated with respect to these criteria. (Author/MBR)

Identifies questions that should be asked, problems that may arise, and sources of information for library media specialists choosing hard disk computer systems. (CLB)

A checklist of 10 ways to use computers in a college or university public relations office is presented including: storing information, streamlining tasks, distributing news, handling hometown releases, maintaining mailing lists, communicating, producing publications, coordinating calendars, getting organized, and troubleshooting. (MLW)

Reviews definitions and the scope, history, technological capabilities, and other significant issues of electronic publishing. Advantages and disadvantages of electronic publishing are compared to those of traditional publishing, and possible future impacts of electronic publishing on books and libraries are considered. (CDD)

Discusses role of Library of Congress (LC) in cooperative preservation microfilming activities in United States, noting relationship of LC to library community, sharing of technical expertise and procedural experience, the actual filming, and adequate bibliographic control for preservation microforms. Aspects of three-year Optical Disk Pilot…

Describes the Navy's Military Personnel Records System (MPRS), an updatable micrographics system that is evolving into a sophisticated and innovative optical data disk automated personnel information system for officers and enlisted personnel. Highlights include current and proposed systems, their evolution, operating characteristics, and project…

Describes a product--BiblioFile, Library Corporation's catalog production system--and a service--reproduction of public domain software on CD-ROM for sale to those interested--which revolve around the ultra-high-density storage capacity of CD-ROM discs. Criteria for selecting microcomputers are briefly reviewed. (MBR)

In this fifth course installment, the impact of technological developments on subject access is discussed. Expert opinions concerning trends in online catalogs, information storage, information generation, the user interface, library use of computer technology, subject access to pictorial materials, user friendly access sytems, and quicker access…

Outlines a cooperative effort in Iowa to eliminate dangerous or unwanted chemicals from school science storerooms. Also reviews the Council of State Science Supervisor's safety program and discusses how to prevent cuts and punctures from jagged glass tubing. (JN)

Describes the utilization of a word processing program by a school administrator to do teacher evaluations. The discussion includes what the administrator's needs were and the physical process of setting up the system. (MBR)

This report offers a case study in the advantages and disadvantages of depository libraries, their economics, and the practical and political issues associated with their creation. As director of the library at Amherst College, the author played a key role in establishing the initial off-site storage facility, as well as in broadening its service…

The 131st meeting of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) focused on preservation of digital information. The ARL Preservation Committee convened three panels of experts to highlight major issues raised by the archiving of digital resources, and to encourage discussion about options for operating models and criteria for digital archives.…

The failure of the "open classroom" concept of the 1960's has not diminished the need for researchers to continue to look at learning and teaching to better understand how educational spaces can be improved for everyone that uses them. This document summarizes presentations made at the 1997 American Institute of Architects (AIA)…

Computer applications currently used on campus and feasible in the near future are discussed, ranging from potentials of word processing for teacher and students, to storage and dissemination of scholarly publications, instructional techniques, and highly efficient information storage. Further exploration of the technology's potential and…