This article offers a working definition and general comments on the purchasing of library turnkey systems (package including hardware and software required to accomplish a clearly defined task). Turnkey versus customized, selecting a turnkey system, request for proposal, contracting with vendors, and post installation evaluation are discussed.…

Comparison of conventional book stacks, moving aisle book stacks, and industrial storage techniques shows that the industrial technique is the least expensive to build, maintain, and operate. Characteristics of automated storage and retrieval systems are discussed, and formulas for calculating the size and costs of a library system are presented.…

These guidelines for upgrading a local online library system, cover: (1) technical considerations; (2) management issues; (3) planning, including profiling, data file conversion, consideration of add-on programs, and user interface; (4) training; and (5) the conversions process. A sidebar provides data about conversion at the Health Sciences…

Describes the local, in-house designed, automated, on-line circulation system which has been in operation at the public library in Farmers Branch, Texas, since October 1, 1975. The relatively inexpensive system is linked to the IBM System 3 Model 10 in the city data processing department. (JVP)

Designed to provide managers with a basic introduction to the planning components and procedures involved in planning for library automation, the overview provided here offers guidelines for eight documents that may be produced as part of such a study: (1) Automation Project Long Range Plan (60 Month Plan), an executive summary document providing…

Addressing both positive and negative issues associated with adapting telefacsimile technology to meet library service needs, this guide provides basic information about the technology while illustrating how librarians have begun to incorporate it into their work processes. The following topics are covered: (1) the definition of telefacsimile and…

Description of the development of a CD-ROM public access catalog at the Tacoma (Washington) Public Library covers: (1) costs; (2) pros and cons; (3) access time; (4) updates; (5) linking with the circulation system; (6) vendor selection; (7) compact disc interactive; and (8) digital video interactive. (MES)

Describes factors in successful customer service programs that are pertinent to libraries choosing an integrated online library system. Topics discussed include quick response time; easy access to information; well-trained client representatives; low costs; cooperation with customers and vendors; and anticipating customer needs. (LRW)

Describes features of existing software packages for circulation control (borrower and item files, data capture and verification, issue, return, renewal, loan conditions, reservations, overdues, updating, and management information), and serials control (ordering, recording receipt, reader access, binding and financial control, listings, and…

Addresses principles of library budgeting and applies them to planning for library computerized services. Ways of anticipating costs and dealing with hidden costs are described. Further discussion focuses on computer upgrades and levels of computer access. Ground rules for coping with budget planning are outlined. (Contains seven references.) (KRN)

This document proposes a model of the decision making process required of research libraries when they embark on digital conversion projects. A series of questions are offered that focus on facilitating the decision making process for library managers. Questions of what and how to digitize are placed in the larger framework of collection building…

This SPEC kit is based on a June 1987 survey of approval plan use by 94 members of the Association of Research Libraries. It reports on the current practices of these libraries, the perceived advantages and disadvantages of using approval plans, and the effect of increased library materials costs and library automation on such plans. It is noted…

Suggests guidelines to consider when choosing electronic reference tools for school libraries, including stand-alone systems versus networked versions; other resources that give access to the same information; annual updates; replacement costs; equipment needs; student and teacher needs; training time needed; and ease of use. (LRW)

One of the most significant decisions in a library administrator's career is the decision to automate one or more of a library's operations. This book describes the present state of local library automation; the planning, selection, and implementation process; and the library administrator's role in the process. The bulk of the text provides a…