Library text production and information retrieval applications require a programing language with string processing facilities. The most useful languages are SNOBOL, COMIT APL and PL/1. (Author/LS)

Automation of the survey process has proved successful in many industries, yet it is still underused in educational research. This is largely due to the facts (1) that number crunching is usually carried out using software that was developed before information technology existed, and (2) that the educational research is to a great extent trapped…

The specifications for serial records of the MARC Serials Distribution Service, the National Serials Data Program, and the International Standard Bibliographic Description for Serials are discussed. Both data content and, where applicable, machine format are analyzed. (4 references) (Author)

Simon Fraser University library began operation with an automated circulation system. A radically revised loan policy caused the system design and assumptions to be questioned. A cheaper, simpler, and more effective off-line system eventually replaced the on-line system. The systems, fiscal, and administrative implications of this decision are…

Due to growing productivity in the bakery products industry, increasing demand may not lead to increased man-hours. (BH)

A discussion of major events and trends in the development of both the hardware and software for automating Soviet instruction''. (Author/AK)

A look at why computers will never replace people and at some ways in which computers can be more effectively utilized. (AK)

The work described was designed to test the feasibility of using automatic or semi-automatic methods to replace or reduce the intellectual effort involved in retrieving information from machine readable stores, particularly those using natural language. (Author)

The inventory of a special library collection imposes an appreciable work load on the library staff. It should be done only after careful planning and after the users have been advised of the necessity of the activity and the procedures to be followed. The inventory procedure in a mechanized library is described. (Author/NH)

The lack of information on problems, mistakes and failures of electronic data processing in libraries is described. A brief annotated bibliography on the subject is presented. (SJ)

A consideration of the various possibilities which are available for improving library operations and collection control makes it plain that the response of the library community ought to be towards greater cooperation among library centers and more extensive standardization. (31 references) (Author)

This is a synthesis of the second progress report submitted by the Library of Congress. An overview of the progress in the following areas is given: production, Official Catalog comparison, format recognition, research titles, microforming and investigation of input devices. (MF)