Reviewed are several studies which demonstrate how artificial intelligence techniques can be applied in the design of end user-oriented interfaces (which would eliminate the need for an intermediary) to existing online systems, as well as in the development of future generations of online systems intended for the end user. (Author/SW)

Describes the serials book catalog at the Iowa State University Library, one which provides access points generated automatically from the central serials database by a unique, locally written computer program. (FM)

The focus of Part Two of this series is on techniques for searching special applications in the behavioral sciences, such as grant sources, dissertation abstracts, audiovisual materials, and government publications. A sample search demonstrates the extent to which retrieval may be enhanced by exploring multiple databases for interdisciplinary…

Evaluates these two bibliographic databases for geosciences information in terms of their content coverage, search methodologies, user effort, and analysis of results. (SW)

Describes staff involvement in the implementation of two successive online systems for library technical processes and searching in the University of Pennsylvania Library. It contrasts their response by considering some system features and the environments into which they were introduced. (Author/RAA)

Examines the economic and technological factors affecting the evolution of three bibliographic networks--RLIN, UTLAS, and WLN--and explores the role of those state and regional networks that broker OCLC services. (Author/FM)

Describes current online technology, including the physical and functional aspects of three types of networks: search service, customized service providing bibliographic files, and service center. (FM)

A survey of 34 of the largest public library systems, each serving at least 500,000 people, showed: (1) minority offer online database services; (2) cost is major prohibiting factor; (3) New York Times Information Bank is most popular database; (4) fee structures vary; and (5) business organizations are most frequent users. (JD)

Summarizes use statistics for the first year of search activity for the Kansas City Libraries Metropolitan Information Network (MINET). Included are databases searched, types of participating libraries, patron status, search systems used, charges, nonpaid searches, and referrals. (SW)

Data collected from analysis of the University of South Dakota's uninhibited database selection and use policy are evaluated as an aid in developing a cost-efficient database searching strategy. Statistics are presented which clarify the effectiveness of single and multiple database use. (SW)

Describes a computer simulation model developed to provide information on the number of terminals or readers needed in the advent of microfilm or computerized catalogs in libraries. Systems with two to 14 terminals are simulated, and decision variables include average patron waiting time, number of patrons lost, and average terminal utilization.…

The existence of EURONET, the European online information network sponsored by the European Economic Community, raises questions as to how non-European countries' access to the on-line information and data systems of Europe will be handled in the future. Its organization, and some of these related questions are discussed. (Author/MBR)

Describes the Exceptional Child Education Resources (ECER) database of professional materials on the education of handicapped or gifted children and youth. Focusing on ECER as it's mounted on Bibliographic Retrieval Services (BRS), the article covers scope, related files, publication types, and searching and provides a searchguide and…

Discusses the technological advances in electronic communication over the last 30 years. Touches on various real-time interactive multimedia communications, including video on demand, videocassettes, laser discs, CD-ROM, a history of networking, terminal/host and client/server networking, intraoperability and interoperability and multimedia…

Describes the development of "Online" magazine, considers the impact it has had on its target audience of online searchers, and discusses changes in the online information field during the last 20 years. Topics include growth of the Internet; price competition; quality of information; and user interfaces. (LRW)