Reports on the retrospective conversion via OCLC of cataloging for three library collections at the University of South Carolina--the main, rare book, and historical collections. Backgrounds of the collections, conversion procedures, determinants of conversion rates, and cost factors are discussed. (Author/JL)

Describes the development of telephone communications links between automated circulation systems in six public library systems in the state of Maryland, and discusses the implications of such links for interlibrary loan programs. (JL)

Retrievability of titles of 152 periodicals were compared in a fixed-length algorithmic search (Library Computer System) and a keyword search (Washington Library Network) to determine which type of search algorithm is more successful with titles of varying lengths. Three references and a list of English language stopwords are appended. (EJS)

Describes the Drexel University Computer Simulator of Operations with an Online Program (DUCSOOP), a computer program intended to provide instruction on the nature of simulation and its use in decision making, by generating discrete flow simulation models based upon parameters provided by model designer. Examples and four references are included.…

Examines five factors critical to the successful functioning of search analysts as reference librarians: professional training, background knowledge and working experience in references services, personality characteristics and interpersonal skills, the marketing of online services, and patron evaluations supplemented by postsearch reference…

Compares the rapid development of online bibliographic information retrieval systems with that of videotex, still in its experimental stages. Examples of equipment used and services offered in Canada are given. (Author/JJD)

Ten online databases were evaluated for their scope, extent of coverage, timeliness, degree of relevance, and overlap using queries dealing with welfare and corrective services. Ten tables of statistical information are included. (JJD)

Forty-two searchers with varying degrees of experience in searching online bibliographic retrieval systems queried the ERIC database using DIALOG. The results were measured with variables which related to the search outcome (cost effectiveness, precision, and recall) and the search process. (JJD)

Discusses in detail the modem (short for modulator/demodulator), an electronic device which links one computer with another using telephone lines, and its importance to home computers. An extensive chart is included which gives purchasing information on low-speed and medium-speed modems. (JJD)

Defining a numeric database as a computer-readable collection of data predominantly numeric in nature, this article reviews techniques and technologies having a positive influence on the growth of numeric databases, such as videotex, mini- and microcomputers, artificial intelligence, improved software, telecommunications, and office automation.…

This introduction to online numeric database systems describes the types of databases associated with such systems, shows the major functions which they can perform (retrieval, analysis, display), and identifies the major characteristics of user interfaces. Examples of numeric database use are appended. (EJS)

Provides a step-by-step guide to creating an interactive video program, using technology that allows a computer program to control a video program, and discusses the concept, the equipment (microcomputer, videoplayer, and video interface card), and the process involved. A buyer's guide to video interface cards is included. (EJS)

Looks at the social and psychological effects on users of the introduction of online catalogs in libraries, examines several major changes in public and professional use of the catalog that result from online systems, and examines some of the unintended social effects of each of these changes. Three references are listed. (EJS)

This overview of the current capabilities of subject access in online public catalogs discusses keyword searching versus subject cataloging, users' views of the online catalog, and user-friendly versus user-hostile systems. Existing online catalogs in public and academic libraries are cited as examples. (EJS)

Describes applications of new technology to information handling on the basis of two trends--the miniaturization of electronic circuits and the shift from analog to digital modes of communication. Information technologies discussed are microcomputers, word processors, telecommunications, storage technologies, databases, videotex, and teletext.…