This document is a state-of-art review of CD-ROM technology, hardware, software, and applications in library and information work, e.g., as direct replacements of large reference publications and as a substitute for and complement to online databases. Based on information published in the last three years and on information gained from international conferences and exhibitions, it provides the basics of CD-ROM technology, including descriptions of disk structure, performance characteristics, logical characteristics, and standards. Both equipment and software used with the CD-ROM are discussed, and CD-ROMs are also considered from ther user's point of view. Fifty-one references are listed. Appendixes provide directories of CD-ROM drives, software packages, CD-ROM products, and CD-ROM disk manufacturers and companies for data preparation, as well as lists of information sources (online databases, journals, conferences, and additional references). (EW)