Relates the Seminole Community College (Florida) library's experience barcoding a collection of materials and provides practical suggestions on how to implement barcoding in other libraries. Highlights include a barcode plan (smart barcodes and dumb barcodes), worker guidelines, problems encountered, and costs. An annotated bibliography and seven…

Examines current research on the implications of and the potential for two speech technologies: speech synthesis or response, i.e., speech output from a computer; and speech recognition, i.e., speech input to a computer. Human factors research is discussed; library applications are described; and future possibilities are considered. (Contains 148…

Discusses the increased costs of library materials, the need for a new budgeting approach, and the impact of technology. The development of a library materials index that was developed at Ohio State University to provide a consistent source for measuring library materials expenditures against the marketplace is described. (Contains 14 references.)…

Describes an approach to electronic document delivery which has evolved at Tilburg University (Netherlands), leading to the development of a system called Ariadne. Highlights include various generations of electronic document delivery systems; standards, including the work of the Group on Electronic Document Interchange; and a description of the…

This last article in a series which reported results of a software evaluation project done by the Netherlands Association of Users of Online Information Systems (VOGIN) focuses on how to select appropriate software. Topics discussed include price considerations; user needs; and types and quality of information. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)

Elementary students can help turn the classroom book collection into a well-organized library using the classroom computer. In the process, they get practice in cooperative-learning groups as they work with both electronic and card catalogs. The article explains how to use computers to create an electronic catalog. (SM)

Presents the results of a survey of 18 vendors of PC- and Mac-based multifunction library systems that include either circulation or patron access catalogs. Highlights include software alone or turnkey systems, operating systems, programming language, sales, profitability, and support staff. (LRW)

The Leo Baeck Institute (New York, New York) is creating a database registering the Jewish archival holdings of repositories in Germany. Discussion includes project planning, creating a German-language version of the Library of Congress subject headings, enhancing access to collections, computerization of archival finding aids, types of materials,…

Addresses issues to consider when upgrading library CD-ROM networks for multimedia applications. Topics includes security issues; workstation requirements such as soundboards and monitors; local area network configurations that avoid bottlenecks: Asynchronous Transfer Mode, Ethernet, and Integrated Services Digital Network; server performance…

Discussion of the possible changes in Hong Kong in 1997 when rule passes to the People's Republic of China focuses on the uncertain future of libraries and librarians. Topics discussed include the political climate; the departure of qualified Chinese librarians; and the growth of libraries and computerized systems. (LRW)

Discusses the role of the Commission of the European Communities (CEC) in the development of the electronic information industry in Europe. Activities aimed at libraries are described; the IMPACT program for developing the market for information services is explained; and problems of multilingualism are addressed. (LRW)

Proposes ways in which computerized data available in public libraries can be organized and used for management decision making. Experiences in the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library system and the Monroe County (Indiana) Public Library system are described, and use of the data for preparing materials acquisition budgets is discussed. (36…

Outlines the application of information technology in 13 of Thailand's academic libraries. Problems of implementation, budgets, specific applications and benefits, and future plans are discussed. (EA)

Describes the structure of the interlibrary loan system in the United Kingdom and suggests implications for American libraries. The British Library Document Supply Centre (DSC) is explained; costs to borrowers and lenders are discussed; and strategic planning involving changing technology, politics, and economics is considered. (24 references)…

Discusses library planning that is needed when changing from one computer system to another. Topics discussed include change theory; the need for communication between library administration and staff and between the library and its users; phased implementation; training for library staff and for users; and the need for documentation. (seven…