This description of ways in which database management systems can be helpful in instructional media centers explains the basic terminology involved and how to plan, create, modify, maintain, and use databases. Examples provided include an equipment distributions form and the structure for a film/video rental database. (LRW)

Intended primarily for use by authors, these guidelines are designed to serve as a model for the preparation of manuals and workbooks applicable to databases. They may also be used in reviewing and/or evaluating databases. A definition of a database search guide and a glossary are also provided. (CLB)

This manual provides electrical and electronic engineers with an introduction to online information retrieval as implemented on the DIALOG information retrieval system. Sections cover: (1) the development of computerized information retrieval; (2) its advantages; (3) the equipment needed, DIALOG hours of availability, methods of access, and cost…

Outlines procedures for the application of data processing technology to media center functions, and explains four steps in designing a database: preliminary design, selection of software, detailed design, and design evaluation. (LRW)

These planning and evaluative guidelines for online trainers utilize a sliding scale--from minimal to suggested to optimal--for five types of training sessions: (1) Search Service--Beginning; (2) Search Service--Advanced; (3) Search Service--Subject; (4) Database Producer; and (5) Independent Introductory Workshop. (RAA)

This guide presents the policies and procedures used by the North Dakota State University Libraries for indexing "The Forum," a daily newspaper serving eastern North Dakota and western Minnesota. The guide includes lists of material to be included and excluded, timetables for updating the index, duties of the editor and the library…

Designed for educators requesting information from ERIC and for the search intermediary who channels educators' requests to a search service, this updated guide explains in non-technical language the steps involved in preparing a computer search for the ERIC database. A beginning section on how to initiate a search discusses the choice of a…

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB, 2002) has had a great impact on states' policies in assessing English language learner (ELL) students. The legislation requires states to develop or adopt sound assessments in order to validly measure the ELL students' English language proficiency, as well as content knowledge and skills. While states…

This information digest discusses current issues in the management of software collections and outlines several possible options for the cataloging and processing of microcomputer software and courseware. A statement of the problem indicates that treatment of microcomputer software is highly dependent on the type of library, size of the…

Discusses some of the factors that librarians should consider when planning to automate their libraries. These factors include vendor and systems selection; equipment; support; additional costs; and time. Seven tips to avoid common automation pitfalls are also given. (MAB)

Describes an instructional database for microcomputers which is designed to eliminate the need for costly textbooks and to aid professors in many of their instructional responsibilities. Various types of databases are explained, and guidelines for hardware selection and backup systems are discussed. (LRW)

Policies and procedures are outlined for the Online Database Information Network (ODIN), a cooperative of libraries in south-central Pennsylvania, which was organized to improve library services through technology. The first section covers organization and goals, members, and responsibilities of the administrative council and libraries. Patrons…

In 1982 a study was conducted to analyze educational software information currently available to Canadian educators and to develop a plan for effectively collecting, organizing, and disseminating courseware information in the future. The teachers, students, librarians, educational resource personnel, and administrators included in the study…

Designed primarily for 4-year undergraduate programs for business applications programmer/analysts offered through schools of business or through applied computer science programs that require a concentration of business courses, these guidelines are based on national and regional conferences, questionnaire surveys, and consultation with computer…

This document details 28 policies and 37 procedures of the online searching service at the Indiana State University (ISU), Cunningham Memorial Library. Sixteen forms used in various aspects of the process are also included. The policies include but are not limited to the following: (1) the Database Search Service organization; (2) Database Search…