There are two principal aspects of automation: the theoretical, or systems area, and the practical or production side. This paper outlines the lessons learned and the problems encountered in planning and implementing an automation program. (Author/NH)

Twenty-nine questions to be asked before deciding on a book catalog are presented with comments based on the experience of the Baltimore County Public Library. The assumption made throughout this paper is that the work will be done by computer. (Author/NH)

The mechanized circulation routines of an aircraft company have reduced operating costs. (AB)

The article argues two main points: (1) make decisions about library automation in the context of competent organization, management, and planning; and (2) lay a sound foundation for automation by completing a step-by-step sequence of tasks. (Author/NH)

The ratio of titles selected to titles read from the cumulative file is the most significant determinant of cost and an effective formula for limiting the growth of the file must be developed for an economical system. (AB)

An on-line cataloging pilot project for two elementary schools is discussed. (Author)

An operational computerized system used by the University of California, Santa Barbara Libraries produces listings of bibliographic data about items in collections where full cataloging treatment is not considered justified. (Author)

Describes the usage and advantages of microcomputers as an alternative to manual processing when the Great Neck Library minicomputer-based automated circulation system goes down for maintenance or repair. (RAA)

Cautions that the new "Anglo-American Cataloging Rules" do little to enhance the effectiveness of bibliographic control and retrieval. The revision in rules remains too tied to the card catalog and does not capitlize on the potential of library automation systems. (RAA)

The development of automated systems in libraries is traced through three broad phases: developmental, operational, and integrative. Management reactions to these phases, as well as typical problems and failures, are characterized, and questions and challenges for management to address in the future are explored. (Author)

This symposium on printed documentation covers (1) Tacoma Public Library's documentation (Lare Mischo); (2) characteristics of bad documentation (Linda Bills); (3) GEAC manuals (Joe Matthews); (4) Personal Bibliographic Software manuals (Victor Rosenberg); (5) DIALOG documentation (Barbara E. Anderson); (6) documentation problems and improvements…

Guidelines for writing documentation for automated library systems cover (1) gathering information; (2) planning the document (manual types, organization patterns, writing style, conventions and standards, and format); (3) writing techniques; (4) deciding what to include; and (5) editing and testing. (three references) (MES)

Discusses ways a microcomputer system might enhance the mainframe library system at Vanderbilt University. Topics include: (1) types of microcomputers; (2) types of terminals; (3) characteristics of a dumb terminal; (4) characteristics of an intelligent terminal; (5) which terminals should be given additional features; and (6) designing an…