Describes the development of the San Jose Public Library's newly operational SCICON circulation control system, one of the largest and fastest online systems in America. (RAA)

Presents a practical guide for the implementation of a turnkey circulation system for those contemplating purchase of an online system. Included is advice on staff planning and bibliographic and patron file conversion. Weaknesses and strengths of the automated system are summarized. (Author/RAA)

Presents a summary of the status of library automation in the late 1970s including the major problems facing libraries as they move to computer-based systems. The developments of the 1980s are also discussed. (Author/MBR)

A small academic library that took advantage of the OCLC online cataloging service by becoming a secondary user recounts the process of initiating use, and outlines its weekly working procedure, including costs. (MBR)

Foresight and planning in adopting any automated system helps to keep options open for future changes due to changing needs. The promise of future technology should not keep libraries from deciding to use the technology of today. (Author/MBR)

Discusses the on-line book circulation system at the Sunderland Central Library, in terms of benefits, operation, and problems. (JVP)

Sixteen articles discuss the library/subscription agency relationship and changes brought about by automation in the United States. The work of the agency as publisher and in other exceptional areas is also described, and relevant activities in Great Britain, the Middle East, and Nigeria are considered. A selected bibliography on automated…

Reviews five CD-ROM catalogs: (1) Auto-Graphics Impact; (2) Brodart LePac; (3) GRC LaserGuide; (4) Library Corporation Intelligent Catalog; and (5) MARCIVE Pac. General guidelines for selecting a CD-ROM catalog are discussed, and vendor addresses and telephone numbers are listed. (MES)

Describes a system that provides online access to holdings information for more than 4,500 journals on a single self-executing diskette. A brief discussion of data compression is offered, along with program listings in both BASIC and C. (MES)

Discusses the concept of a paperless society and the current situation in library automation. Various applications of automation and telecommunications are addressed, and future library automation is considered. Automation at the Monroe County Public Library in Bloomington, Indiana, is described as an example. (MES)

Discussion of the concept of service and its significance for library reference work focuses on attitudes and qualities important to good service. The changing nature of reference resulting from technological developments and the appropriateness of these values for modern day reference work are then addressed. (13 references) (MES)

Describes a LAN (local area network)-based automation project which has neared completion of the first phase of implementation at the Health Sciences Library of Allegheny General Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA). Changes in the library and its objectives with increased technological experience are examined. Diagrams of the current LAN configuration and…

Description of a program sponsored by the University of Arizona's Office of Arid Land Studies to improve management of information resources of the Ministry of Planning of Niger covers: (1) assessment of existing services; (2) operational policy development; (3) implementation of a computerized cataloging system; (4) the organizational plan; and…

Describes the evaluation of four relational database management systems (RDBMSs) (Informix Turbo, Oracle 6.0 TPS, Unify 2000 and Relational Technology's Ingres 5.0) to determine which is best suited for library automation. The evaluation criteria used to develop a benchmark specifically designed to test RDBMSs for libraries are discussed. (CLB)

The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…