Discussion of XML (extensible markup language) and the traditional DTD (document type definition) format focuses on efforts of the World Wide Web Consortium's XML schema working group to develop a schema language to replace DTD that will be capable of defining the set of constraints of any possible data resource. (Contains 14 references.) (LRW)

Looks back at the innovations/tribulations that went into the making of Merit Network, Inc., Michigan's pioneering Internet provider. Today, Merit is serving as the GigaPoP organization for its two current Internet2 members, Michigan State University and University of Michigan, and will provision a vBNS connection for Wayne State University.…

When the Committee on Institutional Cooperation (CIC), an academic consortium of 12 major teaching and research universities began implementing the Virtual Electronic Library, a Continuum of Security Needs list was created which outlines the security and authentication issues that must be addressed. The thirteen security items on the list are…

Description of the development of a computer-based resource-sharing program in Massachusetts highlights past planning efforts, development of philosophical basis of network, network activities (development and linking of bibliographic databases, document request and delivery procedures, computer literacy/training for librarians), and issues…

The IRVING Library Network provides state-of-the-art design, using a distributed packet switched network which implements parts of the Open System Interconnection Reference Model as defined by International Standards Organization. It provides gateway to other networks without disturbing local host systems and creates network language. Glossary and…

Discusses information and communication technology in South African academic libraries in the context of the post-apartheid period which consists of a technologically sophisticated sector and an underdeveloped Third World Sector. Topics include academic library consortia; connectivity; information literacy; human resource development; and…

Describes projects launched in the 1990s (at Duke University and the University of Michigan, for example) that are attempting to digitize images of ancient papyrus collections and to provide indexed electronic access to them. The five largest American projects of this kind have formed a consortium which addresses issues of policy and user…

Explains the development of library networks in Florida and the role of the state library. Topics include regional multitype library consortia; a statewide bibliographic database; interlibrary loan; Internet access in public libraries; government information, including remote public access; automation projects; telecommunications; and free-nets.…

Describes Virginia's statewide and community electronic resource access projects, including the Blacksburg Electronic Village, connected with Virginia Tech and the Internet; a public education network; a consortium of college and university libraries; the state library's digital initiative; and a cooperative library network. (LRW)

Describes the design process for creating a Web site that provides access to services of OhioLINK (The Ohio Library and Information Network), a consortium of libraries from higher education institutions that developed an online union catalog. Goals for future development are also discussed, including electronic journals and user authentication.…

Provides examples of automation and connectivity initiatives that involve libraries in Nebraska. Highlights include the role of state government; Nebraska Online, an Internet-based information service for electronic communication; a public library cooperative automation project; a college library consortium; a library listserv; and the Nebraska…

Discusses information technology initiatives in New Mexico that involve: a consortium of agencies, businesses, universities, and government offices; dial-up Internet access; access to government information; state educational technology plans; wiring institutions of higher education; two state networks; and tribal initiatives to improve…