Examines the evolution of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC). Presents an overview of the ERIC system. Discusses ERIC's historical development, including the three "signature strategies" at the core of its historical evolution; ERIC's redesign in 1986-87, and resultant policy emphases; current status; and eight…

The evolution of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC); and changes in its mission and operating policies at its creation, the redesign of 1987, and during the present planning for a second quarter century are discussed. Eight program improvement initiatives are discussed. (SLD)