Provides a brief description of Usenet, the computer network, and discusses how it may be applied in library settings. How to become a Usenet user, when to choose Usenet instead of a listserv group, and its use as a discussion and reference tool are covered. Six examples of Usenet communications are included. (nine references) (KRN)

The developments over the past decade in the use of on-line systems by libraries are recounted. Cost is discussed as an initial deterrent, and then as a catalyst for change. (MBR)

Several factors are involved in the decision to reclassify library collections and several problems and choices must be faced. The discussion of four classification schemes (Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, Library of Congress subject-headings and Universal Decimal Classification) involved in the choices concerns their structure, currency,…

Advocates replacing the traditional library card catalog with a more effective system. Technological developments such as machine-readable catalogs, automated authority control, and computer-output-microform make possible integration of nonbook media, government documents, journal literature, and local information into the main catalog. (SW)

This directory is designed to provide information on automated systems and/or equipment used in libraries to provide a tool for planning future automation in the context of interlibrary cooperation considerations, and to inform the library and information community of the state of the art of automation in Massachusetts libraries. The main body is…

Discusses the impact of local online databases on library reference services, including their integration with remote files such as Dialog, Orbit, and the Information Bank. Online catalog databases, multiple local databases (analytics for journal articles, indexes), and batch processing of data are noted. Six references are cited. (EJS)

Issues and impacts of microcomputer use in libraries are discussed in terms of labor dislocation, costs, distributed data processing, networks, current system configurations and capabilities, and software. Reference service management, information retrieval systems, and external online access are also examined. Twenty-six references are listed.…

Many libraries are using co-browsing chat products to provide reference services to their patrons, whilst their patrons are online and using the internet. The concept of such an online service is highly desirable, but many libraries are concerned that they will never be able to afford such a system. This may have changed: Instant Messaging (IM)…

The report, submitted to the Illinois State Library, covers the period July 1, 1973 through June 30, 1974. Included in it are: (1) a list of the board of directors and other representatives of the system, (2) a list of the head librarians at each of the branch libraries, (3) a list of the system staff and the heads of individual system-wide…

Papers presented at an August 1982 international seminar on online user education include "The Impact of New Technology on Libraries and Their Users," Brian C. Vickery (United Kingdom); "The Role of NORDINFO in Promoting Online Activity: NORDINFO-Origins and Control," Theodora Oker-Blom (Finland); "Librarians and the New…

In its second year of activity, the Northeast Academic Science Information Center (NASIC) program of the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) has assisted 18 universities and colleges in the Northeast in the implementation of local capabilities to provide computer-based reference services. Working through the libraries at these…

Designed to fill the need for a continuing series to provide scholarly reviews of the reapidly changing field of librarianship, this book presents critical articles and surveys based on the published literature, research in progress, and developments in libraries of all types. The eleven subject areas covered are: (1) "The Machine and Cataloging"…

Reflections of a school librarian on the impact of technological innovation in libraries. Highlights the librarian role in user education, accessioning new titles, weeding, library automation and how to avoid misleading collection use statistics, the Internet and online resources, Internet use policy, and the importance of time in adjusting to new…

Responding to an informal survey, 96 media specialists named favorite software, CD-ROMs, and online sites. This article lists automation packages, electronic encyclopedias, CD-ROMs, electronic magazine indexes, CD-ROM and online database services, electronic sources of current events, laser disks for grades 6-12, word processing programs for…

Papers presented at an August 1984 international seminar on online user education include "Library Policies and Strategies in The Netherlands" (Chris J. van Wijk, The Netherlands); "Promotion and Marketing of Library Services" (Nancy Fjallbrant, Sweden); "Library Promotion by Computer" (Ian Malley, United Kingdom); "Library User Education and…