Explores the potential usefulness of the Library of Congress Classification (LCC) system as a tool in online retrieval. Unique features of LCC are described and a theoretical analysis of its potentials and limitations in terms of subject browsing, enhanced vocabulary, and class number searching are presented. (CDD)

Three problems in online searching in women's studies are type of indexing, database quality, and adequacy of coverage. Results of a recent study show there is significant end-user satisfaction and the searches done are described in order to promote greater and more effective use of online retrieval in women's studies. (Author/EM)

Presents two differing perspectives on materials in Human Relations Area Files (HRAF), which provides ethnographic data to member institutions on paper slips or microfilm cards: focus on HRAF and supporting tools as data retrieval system; practical promise and limitations of HRAF materials as they relate to African cultures. (11 references) (EJS)

Discusses use of PFS File, a database management system under development by the Kansas State Department of Education, to store and sort individual education program (IEP) records and generate report information from these records. File design and range of reports that can be generated are reviewed. (MBR)

Children's librarians should analyze the potential of new technologies before they are formalized so that when innovations are implemented, they will have the capabilities to provide for children's departments' internal management needs and improve children's services. Microcomputers, video, and commercial, public, and cable television can be…

Stresses the role of children's literature in working toward international understanding and the advancement of knowledge, and outlines an international storage and retrieval system for the bibliographic control of children's books, magazines, and audiovisual materials. (CLB)

Descriptions of microcomputer software packages currently available in Australia emphasize those used by special and school libraries. Software for library management functions, text retrieval, and database management systems are included, and geographical distribution is examined. The need for professional development courses in software…

Presents a description of PLEXUS, an expert system on gardening designed as a referral tool for public libraries by the University of London. Highlights include determining user characteristics, developing the problem statement, the use of semantic categories, and search strategies that modify the original problem statement using Boolean…

Discusses the need for user oriented optical storage systems to deal with information storage in offices, and describes the Megadoc system. The features described include hardware configurations, microcomputer applications, the ability to read microfilm or microfiche documents, equipment standards, and current systems software. (CLB)

A medical-information system (MIS) designed to retrieve literature directly related to clinical questions generated during medical practice is described. Questions were processed at the centralized MIS in the Division of Continuing Medical Education at the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine. (MLW)

Presents interview with Roger Summit, the president of Dialog Information Services, Inc. Highlights include Summit's role as chief architect of the system, the inception of Dialog and its beginnings at Lockheed Missiles and Space Company, services provided by Dialog, a challenge for libraries, and future developments and services. (EJS)

Describes the European Strategic Programme of Research and Development in Information Technology (ESPRIT), and its five programs: advanced microelectronics, software technology, advanced information processing, office systems, and computer integrated manufacturing. The emphasis on logic programming and ESPRIT as the European response to the…

Presents microcomputer-based information retrieval system in public access mode and describes preparations, procedures, and use developed and recorded during first year of operation at Louisiana State University. A detailed analysis of month-long free trial period (user status, major areas of study, subjects searched) and 10 conclusions and…

Discusses typical uses of databases and data management programs in the classroom; provides a learning plan to teach students how to use databases; lists typical student projects using databases; and presents criteria to help educators choose appropriate database management programs for their classrooms. (MBR)

Reports on recent advances in development and use of database management systems and increased recognition of importance of information requirements determination and the data dictionary/directory which have created a new role for librarians. Further potential for library careers in data administration is discussed. Twenty-seven references and…