Discusses the development of technical services workstations at Mann Library at Cornell University (New York). Topics addressed include project goals, communications software, the operating environment, personal information management software, implementation and training, possible future applications, and the impact of new technology…

Considers appropriate responses that public library leaders should be making in an environment of technological change. Topics discussed include the library mission and its role in dealing productively with change; library leadership in local government; community information; integrating technology into library management and operations; library…

Presents guidelines for securing funding from the school administration for library automation projects, including suggestions on researching technology and writing a proposal. A sidebar offers advice on approaching corporations for funding for school library automation. (MES)

Explains voice recognition technology applications in the workplace, schools, and libraries. Highlights include a voice-controlled work station using the DragonDictate system that can be used with dyslexic students, converting text to speech, and converting speech to text. (LRW)

Examines the history of reference services; discusses present trends in reference services; and considers possible future model shifts that will be influenced by the continuing explosion of information technology, the need for high level skills, the need for building partnerships, and the need to clarify reference service philosophies. (Contains…

Presents an overview of the issues related to extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation from computer video display terminals. Highlights include electromagnetic fields; measuring ELF; computer use in libraries; possible health effects; electromagnetic radiation; litigation and legislation; standards and safety; and what libraries can do. (Contains…

The first part of the annual automation marketplace survey examines minicomputer systems in libraries. Highlights include vendor consolidation and acquisitions; system interconnection; networked databases; products related to the Americans with Disabilities Act; multimedia; vendor installations worldwide; academic versus public library…

Provides an overview of CD-ROM networking technology in libraries. Six systems currently in operation are evaluated; operational experiences in libraries are discussed, including the need for user education; networking between CD-ROM networks and integrated library systems is described; and future possibilities are suggested. (14 references) (LRW)

Describes the implementation of CD-ROM catalogs in two secondary school media centers. Hardware, software, and network details are presented. Database building is discussed, and factors to be considered in retrospective conversion are listed. Guidelines for student and faculty training are offered. (MES)

Five articles discuss information technology in libraries: (1) "Software for Libraries" (Katharine Phenix); (2) "Online Update: European Online Services" (Martin Kesselman); (3) "Connect Time: Online Pricing Breakthroughs" (Barbara Quint); (4) "Microcomputing: Micro Biology Computer Viruses" (James LaRue);…

Examines issues regarding the privacy of information contained in patron databases that have resulted from online circulation systems. Topics discussed include library policies to protect information in patron records; ensuring compliance with policies; limiting the data collected; security authorizations; and creating and modifying patron…

Summarizes the elements of the Cornell-Yale digitization model and shows how Michigan State University (MSU) has expanded the model, focusing on a project to digitize the American Radicalism Collection of the MSU Libraries. Issues of selection, quality, integrity, longevity, and access are discussed. Sidebars present MSU digitizing procedures,…

Offers 10 guidelines for librarians responsible for making decisions on whether to upgrade application software. Examines the Internet, client/server LAN (local area network) architecture, developments in contemporary stand-alone systems, and graphic user interfaces to determine their impact on the upgrading process. (AEF)

Describes recent changes in the District of Columbia Public Library. Highlights include the search and appointment of a new director; financial problems; past managerial problems; needed technology updates; the impact of municipal government problems; and a sidebar with a biography of the new director, Molly Raphael. (LRW)

Offers tips for choosing an automated library system. Topics include dealing with vendors; talking to other librarians; visiting a similar library with the same system; print sources for system information; demonstration disks; salespeople; costs; and learning about automation company competitors. (LRW)