This discussion of information technology and its impact on library operations and services emphasizes the development of microcomputer and laser optical disc technologies. Libraries' earlier responses to bibliographic utilities, online databases, and online public access catalogs are described, and future directions for library services are…

This paper discusses the development of information technology (IT) literacy among library staff at the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa). The first section describes the networked environment in South Africa. The second section summarizes the IT background of library staff and perceptions of IT literacy among staff. The third section…

With the introduction of the library's OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog), CD-ROMs, the Internet, and OhioLINK, the University of Toledo library is faced with technological, instructional, and other challenges. The main challenge is the lack of a mediated classroom for group instruction. Current paper-based teaching methods do not always allow…

Examines the different concepts and orientations of the two major approaches to the role of metadata in the digital library (library science-oriented bibliographic control and computer science-oriented data management), and proposes an integrated concept of metadata to facilitate the merging of these two approaches. Discusses ongoing efforts to…

This research examines the changes that electronic information technologies have caused on power within organizations, particularly related to library automation, academic libraries, and their positions on college campuses. Based on the strategic contingencies theory of intraorganizational power, a model of organizational power is developed and…

Fourteen articles address issues related to library personnel administration in an automated environment, such as education for automation, salaries, impact of technology, expert systems, core competencies, administrative issues, technology services, job satisfaction, and performance appraisal. A selected annotated bibliography is included. (MES)

Discusses the traditional role and functions of research library technical services departments and examines the impact of electronic information and information technology on technical services. It is argued that technical services units will stagnate if they do not accept the responsibility of becoming technologically adept. (19 references) (CLB)

Introduces five articles on digital libraries by reviewing related legislation, information networking improvements, efforts to plan a virtual national digital library, and key challenges. The articles are briefly described, and short biographies of the authors are provided. (Contains 10 references.) (KRN)

Reviews the 1992 literature on CD-ROM and its impact on libraries. An international perspective is offered; topics include pricing issues, industry reorganization, effects on library policies and practices, U.S. government publishing, and the multimedia market. A bibliography of 26 books and 388 articles, with a subject guide, is included.…

Examines library automation product introductions and conversions to new operating systems. Compares user satisfaction ratings of the following library software packages: DOS/Windows, UNIX, Macintosh, and DEC VAX/VMS. Software is rated according to documentation, service/support, training, product reliability, product capabilities, ease of use,…

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)

This article discusses the possible answers to most librarians' questions and how advanced and hi-technology help them in the library world. Many of the answers to librarians' questions regarding digital media depend upon community/patron awareness and library resources. In this article, the author presents some quoted statements from electronic…

Sixteen papers from a workshop on computer applications sponsored by the University of Cape Town (South Africa) School of Librarianship are presented in this volume: (1) "Introduction to the Use of Information Technology" (Sue Bleimschein); (2) "Searching Remote Databases" (Steve Rossouw); (3) "SABINET [South African Bibliographic and Information…

Discusses the growing similarities between academic libraries and computing centers and proposes an organizational model for the union of the two into an information services center. The administrative and personnel implications of such a union are addressed. (Author/CLB)

Presents a model for predicting and shaping the impact of information technologies on libraries and the library role which is based on the effects of computerization in various business applications. The library network at AT&T Bell Laboratories is described as an example of a successful implementation of the model. (CLB)