Describes the benefits and drawbacks of the use of OCLC in the one-person library at the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C. Cataloging functions, interlibrary loan, retrospective catalog conversion, dial access to online databases, and training problems are discussed. (JL)

Describes a contract between the reference service of a library system in Illinois and a commercial supplier of information in Berkeley, California, to provide the answers to 200 reference questions for a flat rate of $6000. The contract, considered the first of its kind, successfully relieved a current reference overload. (RAA)

Traces the development of online library networks through published literature, noting the existence of conditions necessary for successful networking and characteristics of the literature, and includes a bibliography of works cited. (CWM)

Describes the goals and philosophy of the Research Libraries Group (RLG), and notes the services offered by the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), which uses Stanford University's BALLOTS program as the technological base of the bibliographic network. (CWM)

As the use of information and the means to find it change due to computer and communication network technology and the advancement of online computer searching, abstracting and indexing services must decide which information services they intend to supply. (CWM)

Examines the development of the microcomputer and focuses on its potential for library automation. The characteristics of microcomputers and minicomputers are contrasted and a selected annotated bibliography includes a list of specialty magazines on microcomputers. (RAA)

Details the current organization and functions of the various components of the British Library, with the exception of central administration. Included are the library board, reference division, lending division, bibliographic services division, and research and development department. (FM)

Discusses planning concerns related to governance of a nationwide bibliographic network, such as the Bibliographic Service Development Program sponsored by the Council on Library Resources. Other issues covered are the roles of governance, creation of standards, records exchange, authority control, and identification of potential users. (SW)

Describes how a library cooperative can use marketing analysis and other tools to move successfully from an institution-based business to a network-based business that will better serve individuals who need information. (CHC)

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)

Two thousand participants attended the White House Conference which focused on five broad user-oriented themes structured under the umbrella theme of "Bringing Information to People"--Library and Information Services for...(1) Personal Needs, (2) Lifelong Learning, (3) Governing Society, (4) Business and the Professions, and (5)…

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)

Summarizes the history and major activities of the Foundation Library Committee, created in 1975 to coordinate grants from major foundations so that they best assist library development. The Committee's role in aiding the Research Libraries Group in development of its network is discussed. (SW)