Presents program guidelines for training library staff in the operation and use of automated library circulation systems. Advice is given on the qualificatons of the training coordinator, levels of training, training and training aids, vendor responsibilities and time frame. (RAA)

Presents suggestions for reducing labor costs, improving accuracy, and maximizing computer use when converting circulation system bibliographic files. Planning advice is offered for system integration with regional, state, or national systems. (RAA)

Presents a practical guide for the implementation of a turnkey circulation system for those contemplating purchase of an online system. Included is advice on staff planning and bibliographic and patron file conversion. Weaknesses and strengths of the automated system are summarized. (Author/RAA)

Based on a directive from the National Advisory Board of Canada, this paper provides a set of definitions and guidelines which Canadian libraries may choose to use in negotiating their contracts with database suppliers, vendors, and other information and bibliographic services. The report is intended to: (1) provide a basis for understanding and…

Responses to librarians' questions about library microcomputers cover simple applications to be used by staff with little experience, minimizing risk factor, choosing a microcomputer, hardware obsolescence, uses of mainframes and minicomputers, capacity planning for microcomputers, security of library's data, copyrighted software, and future use…

This brief planning guide for library automation incorporates needs assessment and evaluation of options to meet those needs. A bibliography of materials on automation planning and software reviews, library software directories, and library automation journals is included. (CLB)

Compares database characteristics, access, display, editing, new records, hard copy products, hardware, and price of CD-ROM catalog production products from seven vendors: Gaylord Information Systems; General Research Corporation; The Library Corporation; OCLC; Solinet; Utlas; and the Western Library Network. (MES)

Discusses the need for system upgrades of automated library systems in order to support ongoing software releases; obtain new functional modules; satisfy new library requirements; conform to new industry standards; and utilize new technology. Guidelines are presented for deciding when to upgrade and implement changes in these areas. (11…

Suggests guidelines to be followed by library administrators and managers to deal effectively with changes caused by the introduction of automation or technology projects within a library. The need for planning is emphasized, staff participation is stressed, adequate training and preparation are discussed, and financial planning is considered.…

This updated and expanded second edition offers the latest findings and practices for library automation in the 21st century. With a practical, systematic approach, the book covers the entire spectrum of steps and activities involved in the automation process. Although this text does not prescribe a specific system or approach, it offers detailed…

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…

Discusses the reasons and methods for retrospective conversion of library catalog data into machine-readable form. The need for standards is emphasized and suggestions are given for documenting local standards. Ideas are included for completing the conversion of a project done by a vendor, where some parts may have been overlooked. (Author/EM)

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…

Details planning and implementation of a two-year project by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to demonstrate online circulation procedures at two pilot sites--an elementary and a high school media center. Benefits of an automated circulation program are discussed, and recommendations for similar sites are offered. (MES)

Discussion of development and management of a CD-ROM workstation for library reference services covers: (1) IBM compatibles; (2) computer storage capacity; (3) compact disk drives and printers; (4) file management; (5) protecting the integrity of a hard disk; and (6) backing up software. (three references) (MES)