Outlines the contracting of systems--CompuServe, The Source, and Dow Jones News Retrieval--as well as the purchasing of hardware with easy access and low cost and development of procedures for a videotex information service at Wheaton College Library. Examples of usage of the systems are provided. (EJS)

Describes a program for teaching search analysts at the SUNY Albany School of Library and Information Science. (RAA)

The first of two articles on the acquisition and implementation of a large laserdisk service at Texas A&M University covers funding, donor recognition, selection and ordering of databases, planning and integrating the service with other information services, and future funding and plans. (5 references) (MES)

Explanation of enhancements of a new version of the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--originally called BALLOTS-- focuses on reference applications of what is primarily a technical processing system, e.g., complementing searches, verification, union catalog, and interlibrary loan. Illustrative examples are provided. (EJS)

Outlines the operations of the computer search service at the University of Ottawa, including the clientele served and the nature of the service as a research adjunct to reference; publicity and statistics; physical layout; and systems and databases available for online searching. An annotated list of available databases is appended. (FM)

Describes the World Wide Web "work page" of the Saginaw Valley State University Library (Michigan). Discusses the work page's goals: provide reference librarians with quick Internet access, reflect particular Internet uses, and contain the most-often-used search tools and resources all on one screen. Examines advantages of the work…

Discussion of portal software and flat Web site design focuses on the University of California's Labor Research Portal. Topics include the need for reputable content; the library's goal to link digital resources with research, reference, and outreach; developing the library's role; partnerships; controlling intellectual capital; and the flat…

This description of the implementation of online search services in a small college library focuses on the low-cost, time-conscious methods adopted for searching, publicity, the policy for determining search fees, and evaluation. Sample materials provided include a poster, online statistics, a questionnaire, and a printout. (RBF)

This study compared the performance of students using the printed and CD-ROM versions of ERIC. Four groups of undergraduates researched assigned topics using either CD-ROM with formal instruction, CD-ROM without instruction, the printed version with instruction, or the printed version without instruction. Data suggest that patrons can use CD-ROM…

Suggest strategies for online searching of user requests for research studies on five major databases--BIOSIS, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and the National Clearinghouse for Mental Health (NCMH). Special research limitations, locating criticism or support, proposal for an ideal database, and a study of controlled terms across databases are included.…

Describes Kentucky libraries' participation in a pilot project allowing dial-up access to LOCIS (Library of Congress Information System). The two elements of LOCIS, SCORPIO (Subject-Content-Oriented-Retriever-for-Processing-Information Online) and MUMS (Multiple Use MARC System) are explained, and the use of LOCIS for reference, cataloging, and…

Discusses topics related to the introduction of CD-ROM databases at the Hahnemann University library, including hardware and software, staff training, changes in workload, access and promotion of the service, bibliographic instruction, and public response. Tables listing basic knowledge and protocol for assisting users, a user questionnaire, and…

Describes method of keeping track of search service and database changes through use of database information files stored on microcomputer in use at Computer Search Service, State University of New York Albany. System configuration, file structure, data input forms, system reports, database fact sheets, and search service brochure are highlighted.…

Major goals of study of online systems as reference tools--DIALOG, OCLC, Research Libraries Information Network--in a university library were to evaluate effectiveness of each system as supplement to printed reference tools and public catalog; determine costs; and investigate effectiveness of brief training sessions for reference desk staff.…

Discussion of selection of the InfoTrac Expanded Academic Index database of journal citations to add to the online catalog at a university library considers access to full text on microfilm, coverage, differences between CD-ROM and tape versions, pricing, search capabilities, printing, and downloading. Comparisons are made with the UMI Data…