This annual review article examines the automated library system marketplace from four perspectives: turnkey circulation systems, library-developed software which may be purchased by other libraries, the microcomputer segment of market, and production of COM catalogs. Addresses of 86 turnkey vendors, software vendors, library-developed systems,…

This paper explores features of automated acquisitions systems now implemented and discusses features that might be implemented in the next few years. Distributed acquisitions, ordering, receiving, reconciliation, management reporting, and collection development (selection of current materials, retrospective purchasing, and comparative…

Discusses the traditional role and functions of research library technical services departments and examines the impact of electronic information and information technology on technical services. It is argued that technical services units will stagnate if they do not accept the responsibility of becoming technologically adept. (19 references) (CLB)

Highlights some of the developments in the following areas that have taken place during the period 1977-87 in British university libraries: (1) library resources; (2) automation; (3) collection building; (4) technical services; (5) reader services; (6) management and staffing; and (7) cooperation. (71 references) (MES)

Discussion of the information services offered by American university libraries begins with historical background. Topics related to contemporary reference service are then covered, including goals and priorities; fees; management; measurement; unobtrusive testing; reference personnel; and the online revolution. The future impacts of changing…

Reviews the history of the network that supports the MELVYL online union catalog, describes current technological and policy issues, and discusses the role the network plays in integrating local automation, the union catalog, access to resource databases, and other initiatives. Sidebars by Mark Needleman discuss the TCP/IP protocol suite, internet…

The bookmobile remains a feasible service option for both rural and urban libraries with about 1,000 currently in service nationwide. However, there is a growing need for professional attention to areas such as purchasing, evaluating, automating, and delivering bookmobile services. (LAE)

Review of the 1991 literature on library acquisitions discusses budgeting; the changing environment, including electronic publishing; current issues, including approval plans, automation, education, evaluation, international perspectives, and vendor relationships; conference reports, including a conference on out-of-print and antiquarian…

Review of the 1991 literature on descriptive cataloging discusses objectives and foundations of cataloging; cataloging simplification; three levels of standards for record content; cataloging techniques, including authority work, provision of main entry, transliteration, formation of name headings, and automation; procedures related to record…

Describes a survey of 33 Research Libraries Group (RLG) academic libraries that was conducted to determine the extent to which they were involved in the use, collection, and support of machine-readable text files used in textual analysis. A selected bibliography of research in computer-aided textual analysis is included. (69 references) (LRW)

Reviews literature from 1992 that focused on issues concerning acquisitions. Highlights include acquisitions organization; conference reports; pricing issues and budgetary concerns; vendor performance; electronic publishing; automation; and acquisitions abroad. Issues of access versus ownership, copyright, and storage of electronic media are…

Introduces five articles on digital libraries by reviewing related legislation, information networking improvements, efforts to plan a virtual national digital library, and key challenges. The articles are briefly described, and short biographies of the authors are provided. (Contains 10 references.) (KRN)

Reviews the 1992 literature on CD-ROM and its impact on libraries. An international perspective is offered; topics include pricing issues, industry reorganization, effects on library policies and practices, U.S. government publishing, and the multimedia market. A bibliography of 26 books and 388 articles, with a subject guide, is included.…

This paper considers the application of computers and microcomputers for library automation in Brazil, and the relationship of this application to that country's national policy on informatics. The discussion begins by comparing applications of computers in library automation in developed and developing countries, and several barriers to library…

Describes the recent history of technical services organizations with an emphasis on their labor intensive approach, and offers alternative solutions to technical services staffing needs. Methods suggested include changes that will result in smaller staffs, greater reliance on clerks and paraprofessionals, and a shift of funding to public service…