Eight articles deal with library networking issues: (1) the library role; (2) development of a real computer network; (3) attitudes toward networks; (4) the emergence of local systems; (5) the Western Library Network; (6) the Cooperative Library Agency for Systems and Services; (7) the future of OCLC; and (8) building a unified information…

This annotated bibliography focuses on recent literature dealing with librarianship and future technology. The first section lists 38 articles on the impact of technology on librarianship as a profession. In the second section, 32 articles on the applications of technology to academic, research, public, and special libraries of the future are…

Discusses the future of the library profession and suggests that librarianship could become marginalized (i.e., its significance could be diminished) as a result of automation if librarians do not broaden their vision and keep pace with technology. The roles of libraries, librarians, and library automation in an infrastructure for information…

Six library consultants address issues related to the future of online catalogs, including (1) types of material that will be accessible; (2) the role of the automated library; (3) evolving beyond the current objectives of library automation; (4) new technologies; and (5) the library profession's image of the future. (3 references) (MES)

Summarizes impact of the electronic age and role of the library focusing on the situation in Nigeria and concern for the new age; problems of Nigerian libraries and librarians (developing economy, responsibility for development, political situation, technological problems, lack of personnel); future prospects; and suggestions for present.…

Major trends in library technology and technology in general, as indicated by information gathered through internal development work at the Dallas Public Library, professional readings, and interviews with experts, are discussed. Trends covered are: (1) internal library services focusing on a total systems approach to library automation; (2)…

This discussion of the impact of electronic developments on the dissemination of information and the role of the library argues that a central role as a switching center and information consultant will be critical to the survival of the library in the rapidly evolving electronic information environment. (CHC)

Different views on the future of research libraries are presented in this collection of papers from persons affiliated with the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany. Joseph Z. Nitecki (library director) discusses the effect of social change on library missions, operations, and procedures. Warren F. Ilchman (vice president for research and…

Considers three-dimensional impact of future information society on libraries--diffusion of information technology (library automation, electronic bibliographic control, remote access to library); transformation of societal systems (appearance of information literacy educational system, intelligence infrastructure); and changing human needs (goal…

Examines present trends as well as the past history of information technology as it affects libraries. Topics include library vision and the need for a redefinition of their role as information middlemen between vendors and consumers; effects of the World Wide Web; and electronic information. (LRW)

Computer technology can liberate research from the bonds of time and distance and lead to a transformation of the library's role as an educational resource. (Author)

Clifford A. Lynch, developer of MELVYL and former director of library automation at the University of California, is now executive director for the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI). This interview discusses Lynch's background, MELVYL, the Web and the role of libraries and librarians, community and collaborative filtering, the library of…

Provides an overview of technological change and the capabilities of technology in libraries. Three trends that drive changes in library technology are discussed: (1) integration of technologies; (2) idiosyncratic use of information; and (3) disembodiment of the library through electronic information. Areas of concern, including access,…

Considers future possibilities and needs in libraries, including fewer acquisitions due to rising costs; the demise of older materials; the influence of the nature of access on the direction of scholarly inquiry, i.e., the influence of technology; using electronic resources appropriately; and questioning established routines. (LRW)

Considers changes that technology could make in libraries in the future. Highlights include digital formats; centralization of libraries and library services; the role of librarians; competition between libraries and for-profit information vendors; the publication process; the integrity of information in electronic format; costs; and access to…