Discusses the development of successful pricing algorithms for cooperative library automation projects. Highlights include desirable characteristics of pricing measures, including simplicity and the ability to allow for system growth; problems with transaction-based systems; and a review of the pricing strategies of seven library consortia.…

This introduction to a new column on small automated library systems presents the author's credentials and discusses the topics to be considered, including automation needs of smaller libraries, microcomputer-based systems, network access, implications of automation for administration and staffing, and automation-related problems. (EA)

Describes the collection of the Local History Department of the Central Library in Aberdeen (which includes 2,300 volumes of locally produced newspapers and 101,000 sheets of press cuttings) and the use of an optical disk system to help solve the problems of storage and access to these materials. (CLB)

Describes the results of a survey of public libraries in Connecticut that was conducted to identify the factors that influence library administrators' decision-making process regarding library automation. Discusses vendor selection, funding, and costs, and copies of the survey questionnaires are appended. (Author/LRW)

Explains 10 basic steps for librarians who are interested in applying for E-Rates, the Universal Service Fund financed by the telecommunications industry as part of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Provides discounts on technology services including telecommunications services, Internet access, and internal connections for all public and some…

This report investigates current trends in libraries and museums regarding the use of digitization and other technologies. In 2001, the Institute of Museum and Library Services conducted the first-ever study of the status of new technology adoption and digitization in the nation's museums and libraries. The baseline study identified pockets of…

This final section of the report of a study on resistance to technological innovation in libraries begins with a summary of findings related to six research questions: (1) Assuming that resistance to technological innovation does exist, can a measure be developed to identify the resistance factor from items which tap the various dimensions of a…

The Editing, Photoduplicating, and Distributing of the Research Library Catalogue of Boston Public Library Project, which is described in this report, was supported by grants awarded under the Strengthening Research Library Resources Program, Title II-C of the Higher Education Act of 1965 administered by the Office of Libraries and Learning…

In a continuing effort to reduce costs and improve internal processes, the Glendale Public Library's book charging and overdue determination system has been examined and an improved method conceived which will free badly needed labor hours within the library. It is proposed that the present photocharging transaction card system be kept, but the…

Description of 1986 American Library Association Conference summarizes significant organizational actions and presentations on upgrading automation systems, censorship, federal libraries, fees and public library services, black community information needs, Linked Systems Project, libraries and the homeless, new products exhibited, and 1994…

Discussion of the use of microcomputers in a cooperative public library system notes library management applications in areas of clerical work, word processing, book ordering, inventories, special collection catalogs, mailing lists, and a union list of serials. (EJS)

Offers advice on the principles of successful fund raising, specifically addressing small libraries and fund raising for automation. The discussion covers the need for careful planning, identification of receptive funding sources, and clear communication of needs and objectives. A sidebar provides information on the Foundation Center, an…

Analyzes trends in the library automation marketplace. Market shares for online vendors are examined in terms of total installations, academic libraries, public libraries, revenues, differently sized systems, and foreign installations. Hardware availability, operating systems, and interfaces with MARC are also discussed for each vendor. A source…

This report of a study to determine the economic feasibility of automating catalog production and maintenance for a public library system includes a description of the manual catalog system in use and requirements of the new system. Assessment of benefits and costs were determined for three alternative approaches: (1) retention of the card…