Discusses the use by librarians of BITNET and other national electronic mail networks for note and file transfer. Progress made in developing gateways and network interfaces is described. The problem of smaller libraries without access to large computer facilities and the issue of charging are considered as future concerns. (11 references) (MES)

Describes the experiences of the AT&T Technical Library in installing a local area network (LAN) and bulletin board using the UNIX operating system. Reasons why a LAN was needed, how the system works, and hardware and software used are discussed. (1 reference) (MES)

This description of an electronic bulletin board used by the Wisconsin Interlibrary Services network to process requests covers hardware, software, costs, advantages of the system, operation, training, maintenance, and problems encountered. (MES)

The functions of electronic mail and online catalogs are described, and the possible uses of the two in conjunction for library purposes are explored, including notes between librarians, broadcast news, patron notifications, selective information dissemination, and interlibrary loans. (Author/CLB)

Setting up a public library bulletin board system is described as a way to attract young adult users as well as to foster awareness and use of electronic information media. Step-by-step guidelines cover hardware needed, including modems, types of software available, designing the system's contents, and maintenance and security. (EM)

Describes possible sources of computer software, including hardware bundles, commercial suppliers, users groups, electronic bulletin boards, as payment for software review services, prototype contracts, and writing the software oneself. Advantages and disadvantages of each, especially in terms of technical support, are discussed. (CLB)

This guide reviews the basic principles of Internet exploration for the novice user, describing various functions and utilizing "onscreen" displays. The introduction explains what the Internet is, and provides historical information. The introduction is followed by a listing of Internet hardware and software (freeware and shareware),…

The challenges faced by reference and collection development staff have become increasingly complex in recent years, as more and more materials--in a variety of formats--have become available. This book shows reference and collection development librarians how to use the Internet to share information through online conversations and online…

This report describes library applications of electronic bulletin board systems (BBS), i.e., telecommunications software designed to receive incoming calls from other computer systems. It begins by explaining the basics of a BBS; describing a typical configuration, i.e., a microcomputer and a modem connected to standard phone line bulletin board…

The combination of computer technology and library operation is helping to alleviate such library problems as escalating costs, increasing collection size, deteriorating materials, unwieldy arrangement schemes, poor subject control, and the acquisition and processing of large numbers of rarely used documents. Small special libraries such as…

A survey of academic librarians determined that the use of e-mail in the follow-up stage of a library research project using mailed questionnaires was as effective as postal mail in speed and size of response. Discusses additional benefits (interpersonal communication, reduced time and costs) and drawbacks (time spent identifying messages…

This manual is designed to assist public libraries in Utah in their use of the Internet. Many of the examples used were created specifically to explain the use of products that the Utah Library Network provides for public libraries in Utah. The introduction provides background history and general information about the Internet and general…

Describes a two-week online seminar for high school students in which they were exposed to electronic bulletin boards, information systems, and bibliographic databases. Information on vendors, costs, access to systems, and supplementary materials is included. (CLB)

Stresses the importance of teaching the skills necessary for students to understand computer communications, including microcomputer and remote computer commands; how to get information from human resources through a bulletin board service or information utility; and keyword searching and Boolean logic. (EM)

Discusses three school activities--electronic messaging, problem solving, and database searching--that make use of computer telecommunications. Multipurpose services, equipment and software, training and support, low-cost start-up ideas, and the role of the library media center are also covered. Two recommended publications on telecommunication…