Presents responses to some commonly-asked questions about the development of "Computer Cat," a microcomputer-based online catalog system in a Colorado elementary school learning resources center. Computer knowledge required to implement such a system, hardware selection, hardware requirements, student use of the system, and educational…

This description of the functional characteristics of 20 online public catalogs in libraries in the United States notes their origin and scope, search methods, access points, search commands, record displays, user assistance, database and technical characteristics, and costs. Six references and illustrative material are provided. (EJS)

Description of Research Libraries Information Network, an automated technical processing and information retrieval system, notes subsystems (acquisitions, cataloging, message, print, tables), functions, design, and benefits to participating libraries. (Request complimentary subscription on institution letterhead from Editor, "Perspectives in…

Discussion of microcomputer applications in a medium-sized school library highlights planning, computer software functions, circulation processes, reference services, print reports (bibliographies, overdue book notices, circulation analysis), special functions, equipment needs, and funding possibilities. (EJS)

Describes a program written in VS BASIC which was created for the online tabulation, summarization, and display of information on collection size for an academic library and compares its performance with that of SAS (Statistical Analysis System). Nine figures compare tables produced by the two systems, and two references are given. (RAA)

Discusses the effective use of stack space through weeding, storage, microfilm, and selection; study space based on student population; and service space by reorganization of staff, collections, and study space. Three references are noted. (CHC)

Includes Lukac's overview of an online acquisition system, Robert Newhard on information and ordinary living, Theodore Bolton on interactive home television, a survey of the CTI computer backup system by Joseph Covino and Sheila Intner, and three articles about catalogs and cataloging by Kenneth Bierman, Herbert Hoffman, and Judith Hudson. (RAA)

Reviews factors that should affect the decision to automate a school media center and offers suggestions for the automation process. Topics discussed include getting the library collection ready for automation, deciding what automated functions are needed, evaluating software vendors, selecting software, and budgeting. (CLB)

Describes the Electronic Text Center at the University of Virginia that contains an online collection of full-text databases delivered through a single search program. Highlights include user support services; use of Standard Generalized Markup Language; users; and providing a model for other universities. (LRW)

Discusses library user education in terms of content, impact, and limitations. Evaluation studies of library instruction are discussed; future possibilities are examined, including lifelong learning and the impact of change on libraries; and the Gateway to Information, an online user help system developed by the Ohio State University Library, is…

Discusses designating the Library of Congress (LC) as a national library. Topics addressed include problems with Congress; costs of serving the information needs of Congress; funds for electronic conversion; access to LC resources; user fees; reallocating federal library aid; and governance of LC. (LRW)

Discusses the role of the acquisitions librarian in planning for changes occurring in information services. Topics discussed include future prospects for electronic publishing and online services; scholarly communication and the role of the library in publishing; and two fundamental categories of information services, i.e., delivery and mediation.…

Examines the development and implementation of the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean (CJK) systems on RLIN (Research Libraries Information Network) and OCLC and describes the results of a survey of academic and research member libraries that was conducted to learn how the two CJK systems have been incorporated into local automated library systems. (10…

Discussion of CD-ROM networking using local area networks (LANs) in libraries focuses on the design and implementation of a public use CD-ROM network at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The use of LANtastic is described, enlarging the network allowing access from remote locations is explained, and personnel requirements are…

Describes the ideas, decisions, and discussions behind the Internet Public Library (IPL), their impact, and implementation on the World Wide Web. The focus is on the work of the following development groups: technology; reference; online reference help; online collections; youth; services to librarians; education and outreach; and public…