Description of the history of a statewide interlibrary loan and electronic mail telecommunications network highlights difficulties and reinforces the idea that off-the-shelf systems are preferable to in-house system development. Recommendations include: solicit expert technical advice (including review by an independent programmer); choose…

Describes a study which examined (1) the percentage of personal and corporate name authority records in the Library of Congress authority file that do not contain any references, and (2) the percentage of references present on existing authority records that are not needed in an automatic right hand truncation, keyword searching environment. (CLB)

Discussion of consequences of library automation argues that technology should be used to augment access to information. Online public access catalogs are considered in this context, along with several related issues such as system incompatibility, invasion of privacy, barriers to database access and manipulation, and user fees, which contribute…

This special issue on CD-ROM comprises six articles covering the following topics: (1) an overview of the library market; (2) the producer's perspective; (3) implementation issues; (4) problems; (5) future needs and trends; and (6) a 23-item bibliography which includes an annotated section designed as a self-instructional module. (MES)

The automation of online order retrieval for Chemical Abstracts Service Document Delivery Service was accomplished by shifting to an order retrieval/dispatch process linked to a Unix network. The Unix-based environment, its terminal emulation, page-break, and user-friendly interface software, and later enhancements are reviewed. Resultant increase…

An Ontario school board found the factors necessary for the establishment of an effective decentralized energy management program to be training, a program of reinforcement, and the development of an overall attitude that encourages involvement. (MLF)

Discusses the rapid influx of computer systems and effect of automation on traditional library services at Lansing Community College. Highlights economic ramifications, benefits for patrons, changes in the nature of reference service, and the dangers of information overload. (DMM)

This annotated bibliography of readings on technical standards for libraries emphasizes U.S. publications and U.S. and international activities. The bibliography is divided into six sections: general, current activity, micrographics, serials, and other standards or needs. (CLB)

Describes the production of an automated union list of serials holdings at minimal cost by a small consortium of state government libraries in Louisiana. Use of the UNIX Refer system without any modifications for data entry and production is described. (EM)

Reviews MICRO-ISIS, a mini-micro version of a widely used software package developed by UNESCO for managing bibliographic information, and describes the design and implementation of a monograph catalog as a sample application. The value of this software for smaller libraries in developing countries is emphasized. (Author/LRW)

Proposes a resource analysis model to help library managers acquire most appropriate integrated online library system. The model examines human, equipment, and fiscal resources of acquiring library and supplying vendor, complementing respective strengths and weaknesses of each. A resource checklist is provided to narrow range of choices to single…

The author discusses the macro level of analysis and focuses on the nature of work within the world economy. He examines the cultural characteristics of work, the dynamics of international economic relations, the transformation of international relations, geographical mobility, technological transformation and immigration, professional mobility,…

A study was conducted to determine the status of office automation among various firms in Utah. Data were collected concerning the degree of automation, types of office equipment, secretarial duties, staff relationships, organizational procedures, the degree of planning for future automation, and which office competencies are relevant for…

Academic support systems are characterized as those activities that center around a dean's office--office automation/information systems, institutional research and electronic communication. The basic and design and implementation issues that are encountered in providing these support systems are examined. (Author/MLW)

Proposals are made for practical approaches to the design of electronic office systems to provide for the effective storage and retrieval of the documents that they generate. Problems of records management and requirements to be met by the designer of an electronic office system are highlighted. Nineteen references are cited. (EJS)