The focus of the January 1975 meeting of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) was the future of bibliographic records of library holdings. Speakers from the Library of Congress (LC) reported on historical problems associated with card catalogs and on plans for conversion to other forms. Speakers from large research libraries indicated a…

Discusses the reasons and methods for retrospective conversion of library catalog data into machine-readable form. The need for standards is emphasized and suggestions are given for documenting local standards. Ideas are included for completing the conversion of a project done by a vendor, where some parts may have been overlooked. (Author/EM)

InfoQUEST is a microcomputer-based online public access catalog, designed for the small library handling file sizes up to 25,000 records. Based on the IBM-PC, or compatible machines, the system will accept downloading, in batch mode, of records from the library's file on the UTLAS Catalog Support System. (Author/EJS)

To speed materials to the user while allowing a maturation period to take full advantage of the National Program for Acquisitions and Cataloging, many libraries make newly-acquired materials available for circulation before cataloging. The U. C. L. A. library employs a computer to produce weekly author and title listings. (Author/DH)

Reviews authority control as represented in the literature from circa 1900 to the present. Catalog codes and handbooks are examined; efforts to develop authority files are summarized; and consideration is given to impact of automation on authority control. A list of recommended readings is included and 46 references are provided. (Author/EJS)

A retrospective conversion tool permitting libraries with a microfiche reader and Apple microcomputer to convert bibliographic and holdings files to computer-readable tapes in MARC format is described. The basic process, library costs and MARC tape costs, use of system in Wisconsin, and user's view of the system are noted. (EJS)

Discusses concerns of librarians entering field of library automation emphasizing issues surrounding automated circulation control systems and online catalogs. Factors which have contributed to dramatic growth in these areas are enumerated: MARC II format, reduced computer costs, commercial vendors, scarce resources, and turnkey systems. (EJS)

Analyzes the impact of AACR2 on the card catalog in a medium-sized library using a random sample from a year's cataloging. Rates of conflict, amount of corrections, and creations of split files under different conditions are considered. Data are presented in four tables and a reference list is attached. (Author/JL)

Provides statistical data from MARC-II bibliographic files to be used in the design of a nationwide authority file. The data include information on characteristics of headings and on expected sizes and growth rates of various authority file subsets. Although the data are system dependent, some general implications are derived. (RAA)

Presents the results of a survey of small and medium-sized academic libraries conducted to determine the features of an online catalog considered most important by academic librarians. The major requirements of an online catalog most commonly cited by the librarians are discussed and a ranked list of desirable features is included.

A computer system which has the ability to transfer information directly from OCLC to the in-house computer was developed for use in the acquisition and processing of library materials for the Claremont College (California) libraries. Extensions of the system including automated circulation and conversion to online catalogs are being considered.…

Questions whether IOLS (integrated online library systems) effectively serve all the needs of libraries and encourage the development of each module to its fullest potential. Suggests that the needs of acquisitions departments are often not met, due to emphasis on circulation modules and OPACs (online public access catalogs). (Author/LRW)

Discusses the history of American and British experiences with library automation and contrasts them with recent developments in central and eastern Europe. Highlights include efficiency of internal operations, including cataloging data; access to internal and external library resources, including online catalogs and document delivery; and…

A comprehensive automated authority system in place as a part of an integrated database having the flexibility to produce any catalog format is proposed as a means of making the library catalog--whether manual or online--more responsive to comprehensive authority changes, including standards and practices, and more useful to the library patron as…

This working paper was prepared by a subcommittee of the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Working Group on Public Catalogs. The material consists of cost estimates on generating, duplicating, and maintaining book catalogs and computer output microfiche catalogs. Included are costs estimates from the Ohio College Library Center…