A method of developing computer catalogs is proposed which does not require unit card conversion but rather the accumulation of data from operating programs. It is proposed that the bibliographic and finding functions of the catalog be separated, with the latter being the first automated. (8 references) (Author)

The compatibility property of documentation system is defined by the capacity of the system to posit relationships of equivalence. This state is reached when cataloging references are properly structured and when a program allows searching the same data in the system. (15 references) (Author/MM)

Some details are given explaining start up and conversion costs when library mechanization is undertaken. Cost trends for labor and computer equipment are briefly described which underscore the economics to be expected with the application of data processing in the library. (Author/NH)

Authority control of a cataloging database is essential to support an effective machine readable catalog. Automated authority control can provide assistance with the difficult, intellectually demanding part of cataloging: integrating new items into a collection. (Author)

Presents program guidelines for training library staff in the operation and use of automated library circulation systems. Advice is given on the qualificatons of the training coordinator, levels of training, training and training aids, vendor responsibilities and time frame. (RAA)

Introduces three papers presented at the RASD (Reference and Adult Services Division) Catalog Use Committee program--"Where's the Catalog? Automation, AACR 2, and the User"--held at the 1979 American Library Association Annual Conference. The papers address the program's challenges from different perspectives. (Author)

Discusses the uses of the automated attendant, that "voice" that leads a caller through a series of menus to reach the "answer". Considers ways the autoattendant can be useful or detrimental in the higher education setting. (SLD)

Reviews trends in library automation based on vendors at the 1998 American Library Association Annual Conference. Discusses the major industry trend, a move from host-based computer systems to the new generation of client/server, object-oriented, open systems-based automation. Includes a summary of developments for 26 vendors. (LRW)

Purpose: Reports on the trial of an automated order routine for the University Library in Newcastle which began in April 1966. Design/methodology/approach: Presents the author's experiences of the manual order processing system, and the impetus for trialling an automated system. The stages of the automated system are described in detail. Findings:…

Purpose: To provide an overview of one person's involvement with computer systems in libraries over the last 40 years. Design/methodology/approach: Personal memories corroborated with published articles. Findings: There have been very many developments in libraries in a comparatively short period of time as a result of using computer systems, and…

Purpose: The automatic removal of suffixes from words in English is of particular interest in the field of information retrieval. This work was originally published in Program in 1980 and is republished as part of a series of articles commemorating the 40th anniversary of the journal. Design/methodology/approach: An algorithm for suffix stripping…

It is hard to imagine operating a library today without the assistance of an integrated library system (ILS). Without help from it, library work would be tedious, labor would be intensive, and patrons would be underserved in almost all respects. Given the importance of these automation systems, it is essential that they work well and deliver…

The average school district loses more than $80,000 per year because of lost or damaged IT assets, according to a QED survey cosponsored by Follett Software Company. And many districts--59 percent--still use manual systems to track assets. Enter asset management systems. Software for managing assets, when implemented properly, can save time,…

Although information and communication technologies have become an integral part of life in the United States, they have not yet been adequately integrated into adult language and literacy programs. This raises concerns because of the potential value of technology for enhancing learning and because of the vital role of technological proficiency as…