An iterative method for information retrieval is presented using searchonyms found from previously retrieved set of documents in query expansion. Large operational bibliographic databases are used to simulate behavior of this method which selects most informative features as searchonyms to be used in query reformulation. Ten references are listed.…

Considers patent subject searching capabilities of major online databases, noting patent claims, "deep-indexed" files, test searches, retrieval of related references, multi-database searching, improvements needed in indexing of chemical structures, full text searching, improvements needed in handling numerical data, and augmenting a…

Reviews computer applications in judicial, legal, and legislative information activities being used to support litigation and court administration, assist in searching for legislation and laws, aid criminal justice information systems, and provide appropriate bibliographic and reference assistance. Management issues in automating systems are…

A retrospective conversion tool permitting libraries with a microfiche reader and Apple microcomputer to convert bibliographic and holdings files to computer-readable tapes in MARC format is described. The basic process, library costs and MARC tape costs, use of system in Wisconsin, and user's view of the system are noted. (EJS)

Generation of book catalog of computer programs--"Bechtel Catalog of Computer Programs" (BECCAT)--by a corporate data processing library used by a multinational corporation is examined in terms of justification, entries, production, and distribution. Sample program entry format, library program control form, and log entry data are…

Outlines use of multiple database searching in the behavioral sciences, focusing on the first two steps of the search strategy process--analyzing the information problem and selecting databases. User needs (comprehensiveness, currentness and type of relevant material) and searcher resources (efficiency) are analyzed. A table outlining resources…

Suggests standards designed to guide potential database users through a systematic evaluation process to choose database appropriate for particular application. Comparison standards are provided for database content (scope, completeness, source coverage, selection/evaluation, redundancy, references); database systems (documentation, accessibility,…

Urges that libraries become involved in providing access to machine-readable data files, such as statistics gathered by government agencies, research data gathered by scholars, and economic or business data, and describes how the Lawrence University Library developed a data collection and supportive services. Twenty-eight sources are appended.…

This article discusses: (1) options for physical education researchers regarding computerized information retrieval systems; (2) how these systems have been integrated with traditional library services; and (3) basic issues associated with computerized information retrieval. Databases which specialize in physical education and sports information…

Rutgers' direct mail fund-raising campaign operated by volunteers and using computer and word-processing technology is outlined. Alumni were divided into subgroups and different techniques were used in the mail appeal, including personalized letters and reply cards. Suggestions for others undertaking such a campaign are noted. (MSE)

Presents list of sources providing information about reference uses of databases emphasizing those which are commercially available and issues and developments in online database searching. Citations to introductory textbooks, other useful monographs, journal articles, bibliographies, periodicals, directories, professional groups, conferences,…

Computers allow students to experiment with new projects in the history classroom. The Comparative Cities data file was used to explore the social impact of industrialization and urbanization in an undergraduate seminar. The data file can be adapted for high school students, but such a project has potential problems. (AM)

The way documentation procedures are organized in society has a decisive influence on the democratization and dissemination of power. The impact of documentation and information processing systems, data banks, and telecommunications networks on third world development and democratization trends is discussed. (AM)

Findings on alternative procedures for evaluating measures of achievement in individual data packages at the National Assessment of Educational Progress are presented with their methodological implications. The need for secondary analysts to be aware of the organization of the data, and positive and negative features are discussed. (Author/CM)

Briefly describes the development of databases since 1979 for searching online the geographic aspects of international relations topics. Online news services, commercial databases, and government-reproduced foreign affairs databases are discussed. Some suggestions for useful future sources are also made. (JL)