Briefly looks at the present use of computers in library reference service for bibliographic database searching, then surveys the future as indicated by recent developments and ongoing research. Cooperative online reference, local databases, and increasing ease of online information retrieval are discussed. Included are 40 references. (Author/JL)

Describes LIBRUNAM, a complete system for the handling, processing, and retrieval of bibliographic information (mainly books), developed by the Direccion General de Bibliotecas of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. (Author)

Describes the Commercial Update and Retrieval System (CURS), part of an instructional resource program implemented at Virginia Tech that enables students to locate, categorize, critique, or redesign any of 1,000 television commercials which were previously stored on 16mm film reels. The systems software and its instructional implications are…

Compares the relative costs of online and offline printing of retrieved citations in bibliographic searching. A formula for cost comparison is presented, and some of the advantages of high-speed (120 characters per second) output devices are outlined. (JL)

Presents the minimum information necessary for the newcomer to digital technology to bluff his way through a conversation. Terminology explained with a minimum of technical detail includes digits, analogs, digital numbers, the effect of noise, sampling, telecommunications, and digitalized information. (MER)

The current status of MELVYL, the University of California's prototype online catalog, is described in a hypothetical conversation between the catalog and several users. Examples illustrate features of the two search modes available for this patron-accessed system: COMMAND for the novice, and the more sophisticated LOOKUP. (RBF)

Describes the creation and integration of a microfiche catalog into an online computer system for bibliographic control in a university library. Results from two experimental tests are described which demonstrated the feasibility of the system, and costs and operation times are evaluated. Tables of data are included. (Author/BK)

This selective annotated bibliography lists 86 references on the following topics: future technology for libraries, library automation, paperless information systems; computer conferencing and electronic mail, videotext systems, videodiscs, communications technology, networks, information retrieval, cataloging, microcomputers, and minicomputers.…

Discusses issues regarding training for computer-based reference services, including who is to be trained and who is responsible for training, and summarizes the training offered to date by search service suppliers, database suppliers, library schools, and extension programs. Available training materials are also considered. (Author/FM)

Indicates that citation data conform to the Brookes model, that a scientific journal which is used as an archive ages slowly, and that one which supports a research front ages quickly--aging being dependent not only on the material, but on the user. (Author/SW)

Describes a preservice computer program at Northwestern University that manages students' entry into and progress through a series of on-line, interactive tutorials by assessing their initial behaviors, assigning lesson modules, guiding use of a bibliographical data base, and monitoring their progress. (Author/GT)

Describes on-line services provided by the Educational Materials Laboratory of the Montgomery County (Maryland) Public Schools for students and school staff desiring access to the ERIC data base, as well as a network operation for county residents. (CMV)

The utility of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) system is criticized, based upon (1) difficulties in computerized retrieval of literature on evaluation; (2) the fact that few items listed in a bibliography on evaluation (RIE: ED 166 244) were included in the ERIC data base. (See also RIE: ED 160 664). (GDC)

Describes an eight-week continuing education program which used the Canadian Communications Technology Satellite to provide interactive educational television in the teaching of online computer retrieval techniques to librarians in remote areas. (FM)

Research results with industrial and academic users and nonusers of computer-readable bibliographic data bases indicate that prior information "style," satisfaction with more traditional information resources, and attitudinal predisposition to the possible utility of on-line search services have some small effect on subsequent usage of on-line…