Speculations about ways in which media centers will utilize computers in the future include applications for circulation, cataloging, reference, information retrieval, and computer controlled videodisc machines. (STS)

Foresight and planning in adopting any automated system helps to keep options open for future changes due to changing needs. The promise of future technology should not keep libraries from deciding to use the technology of today. (Author/MBR)

Discusses the concept of a paperless society and the current situation in library automation. Various applications of automation and telecommunications are addressed, and future library automation is considered. Automation at the Monroe County Public Library in Bloomington, Indiana, is described as an example. (MES)

Various predictions are being made about the future of library technology, but many of these are "paper dragons"--exciting and plausible, but made without real consideration of need or of the possibility of implementation. A review of many such forecasts makes it possible to develop criteria for a logical and credible prediction:…

Review of trends in public library buildings covers cycles in building activity; financial support; site selection; expansion, remodeling, or conversion of existing buildings; size of buildings; and such architectural concerns as flexible space, lighting, power, accommodation of computer systems, heat and ventilation, fire protection, security,…

The state librarian of Michigan looks at how information technology has been used thus far and how it can be used more effectively in the future. Library automation is given as an example of how people can adapt. (JOW)

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 paper describes how the applications of technology to library functions generally follow the three-phase pattern set by business. In phase one, technology is applied to the automation of manual procedures in order to save time and/or money. Phase two involves the use of technology for non-traditional, innovative approaches to traditional…

Suggestions are made for solving problems in current computerized cooperative library networks. (KP)

This article examines fiber optic technology, explains some of the key terminology, and speculates about the way fiber optics will change our world. Applications of fiber optics to library systems in three major areas--linkage of a number of mainframe computers, local area networks, and main trunk communications--are highlighted. (EJS)

Explores library-related implications of the U.S. Department of Justice's investigations into the operations of Microsoft and Intel and suggests that developing a broader understanding of information technology marketing is crucial to the short- and long-term future of libraries. (MES)

The dominant thrust of the 1980's may be the development of cost-effective in-house library minicomputer processing and catalog access systems capable of interfacing synergistically with an effective national library network for sharing bibliographical data and library resources. (Author/PF)

Examines the forces for change in reference and information work in the public library--politics and economics, society and the individual, the profession, technology, and the growth of information--and considers the possible future for such service in individual libraries. (CWM)

Examines the environmental context that is shaping academic libraries and computing centers and their interdependence. The strengths of a partnership of these two information service organizations are discussed, and potential areas of tension between them are considered. Resulting changes in the nature of information work are suggested. (16…

Describes the development of the GALAXY Integrated Library System by Gaylord Information Systems. Topics addressed include the library automation business; industry trends, both long-term and short-term; a history of Gaylord's automation ventures; Gaylord's vision of the future; and perspectives from two GALAXY users. (LRW)