This report analyzes data gathered from 29 automated library system vendors who responded to a 1996 survey. The survey also requested their perceptions of Java (an object-oriented programming language) and network computers, and issues and trends to be considered by library administrators. Contact information about the vendors is provided. (Four…

Describes the design of the building named in the title, including the educational context and design goals. Includes a general description; information on the architect, construction team, and manufacturers and suppliers; and a case study of costs and specifications. Also includes a floor plan and photographs. (EV)

Discusses a research project designed by the Italian National Research Council to establish a historical databank of the Italian legal language from its beginning in 960 AD to the present. Outlines processing techniques and problems. Describes specific computer software employed. Seeks to create an information system that retains the richness of…

Issues related to library online systems are discussed in six articles. Topics covered include staff education through vendor demonstrations, evaluation of online public access catalogs, the impact of integrated online systems on cataloging operations, the merits of smart and dumb barcodes, and points to consider in planning for the next online…

Compares the available databases, retrieval techniques and costs of traditional online searching of remote databases and local online access, i.e., databases available at the point of use via CD-ROMs or site licenses. The options and risks of local online access, and the possible impact on the database industry, are discussed. (CLB)

Issues related to end-user training for scientific and technical online databases are discussed in five articles. Topics covered include instruction in the use of controlled and natural language vocabularies; a planning assessment for end-user searching; the role of the information center in industrial research; training for health care…

Discusses technologies developed to create high density compact discs capable of containing a feature length movie. Topics covered include development of new standards for the next CD-ROM generation; new disc and playback technologies being developed by Philips, IBM, Nimbus, CD-ROM USA, and others; and disc speed. (KRN)

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)

Discusses the integration of CD-ROMs with online service producers. Highlights include publishing; LucasFilm's Habitat project; programs through Prodigy, CompuServe, America Online, and Philips Media; hybrid links to Internet sites; multiplayer games; virtual chat with avatars; and problems, including CD-ROM's slowness, download time, storage…

Describes a study conducted with graduate library school students that compared two commercial online search systems, DIALOG and WILSONLINE, to determine which system was preferred for what purposes, and whether the order of teaching or acquiring expertise in searching a system affected preferences. An appendix includes student comments comparing…

Examines the role of a building administrator in helping staff cope with change. Various phobias are described and appropriate treatments considered, including a fear of change, fear of computers, fear of technology, fear of electronic open spaces, fear of vendors and other noneducators, and fear of new learning methods. (four references) (LRW)

Reports the results of a survey of integrated library system vendors that examined installations in Canadian academic, public and special libraries during 1989. Findings discussed include large library system versus PC-based system market shares, an analysis of system selection by type of library, and other factors that affect system selection. A…

Discusses the variety of search command languages among online systems and provides suggestions for creating online information retrieval manuals using a database management system such as dBASE III PLUS. An online systems comparison chart is included for INFOGLOBE, INFOMART, DIALOG, QUICK LAW, and REUTERS TEXTLINE. (LRW)

Describes how the Northwestern State University library organized a successful technology fair that focused on the library and campus technology. Discusses reasons for organizing the fair, including the introduction of new workstations; academic department participation; vendor participation; marketing strategies and communication; and student…

In the ephemeral dot.com economy, numerous education portals (search engines) are emerging just as unsuccessful ones are terminating or trimming services. Ideally, portals offer an online school/home gateway and provide tailored content for parents, students, and teachers. However, quality, equity, reliability, and commercialism issues abound.…