Noting that technological developments will influence both library automation decisions and user expectations, this paper focuses on six issues involved in planning for the use of information technology in libraries: (1) perceiving the information technology needs of library users; (2) addressing their information technology needs; (3) planning to…

Discussion of planning for automation in school libraries focuses on plans in the North Kitsap (Washington) School District. Highlights include selection of microcomputer-based hardware and software to support local area and wide area networks; a circulation system and an online public access catalog (OPAC); and database creation and retrospective…

Discusses the use of computer networks and software in libraries and/or classrooms. Benefits for students and teachers are described, including improved communication between students and between students and teachers; guidelines for selecting hardware are suggested, including workstations and printers; and planning considerations are discussed.…

Discusses the planning process for migrating to a new library media center automation system, including identification of the need to migrate, solicitation of stakeholder support, enumeration of required attributes of a new system, writing the Request for Proposal (RFP), and maximizing vendor demonstrations. (MES)

Guidelines are given for automating a library. Issues arising in automation are illustrated through the experience of the Doherty Library of the University of St. Thomas, Houston (Texas). The first step is to decide what type of system is right for the needs of the library and its patrons. In considering vendors of systems, it is important to…

This guide brings together all aspects of administration of a school media center in light of the new qualitative standards in "Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs." The book focuses on practical considerations within a single school as reflected in the new developments in organizing and administering the…

Special supplement to "Library Journal" and "School Library Journal" covers topics of interest to school, public, academic, and special libraries planning for automation: microcomputer use, readings in automation, online searching, databases of microcomputer software, public access to microcomputers, circulation, creating a…

Describes the development of a formula to determine the needed quantity of computers for a school library. Four types of information technology activities (administrative, personal productive, class/group productive, online public access catalog) and several variables (age levels served, campus focus, number of staff, size of student body, average…

Offers guidelines for consultants from developed countries who are establishing automated libraries in developing countries. Topics discussed include needs assessment; collection characteristics; computer needs of the institution; user characteristics; funding; physical environment; personnel; local resources and services; and choosing…

Suggests ways to develop staff training programs for library automation projects. Tips fall into five concept areas: trainers, trainees, program content and design, training environment and schedule, and followup. It is noted that the guide is appropriate for libraries automating for the first time or for those making changes to established…

In an era when patrons want access to CD-ROM resources but few libraries can afford to buy multiple copies, CD-ROM local area networks (LANs) are emerging as a cost-effective way to provide shared access. To help librarians make informed decisions, this manual offers information on: (1) the basics of LANs, a "local area network primer";…

A library has the capacity to deliver much more than just its locally stored and owned resources. By using telecommunications, information can be sought from online databases and from other pupils in schools across the world. This paper includes: (1) an explanation of the link between "virtual reality" and the "virtual…

This book is designed to provide the information needed to start a new agricultural library. The guide covers a wide range of topics including information sources, acquisitions procedures, and public relations. It provides addresses of publishers and information sources; a list of common abbreviations; a ground plan for a library; and information…

Developed to provide suggestions for the efficient operation of a school library media center, this guide begins with the selection and acquisition of materials, including the formation of selection policy; the selection of instructional materials; criteria for evaluating picture books, fiction books, information books, films, filmstrips,…

Based on a need to assess current library strengths and weaknesses and to project potential library roles in supporting higher education, this master plan makes a series of recommendations to Colorado's academic libraries. It is noted that the plan was endorsed by both the Colorado Commission on Higher Education and the Colorado State Department…