Compares OCLC, WLN, and RLIN in terms of the composition of the databases, indexes and searching, special uses for public services, costs, and documentation. Selected bibliographies of general public service uses and interlibrary loan applications are provided. (CLB)

This paper reviews the progress made so far in the development and use of expert systems for library and information services in the areas of online information retrieval, including gateway software and intelligent front-ends; cataloging, including bibliographic utilities and machine-aided cataloging; abstracting; reference work; and indexing and…

Surveys the current state of computer applications in six areas of library work: circulation control; descriptive cataloging; catalog maintenance and production; reference services; acquisitions; and serials control. Motives for automation are discussed, and examples of representative vendors, products, and services are given. (15 references) (LRW)