Discusses resource sharing among libraries based on a study of data from the Illinois Library Computer Systems Organization (ILCSO). Highlights include differences in borrowing patterns based on the size of libraries, lending/borrowing ratios, and the volume of resource-sharing activity compared to other factors. (LRW)

Discussion of state information networks highlights the network entrepreneurs, state network development, the third decade of networking, and six potential issues of special concern to state library networks: decentralization, standards, linkage, technical obsolescence, security, and appropriate technology for small libraries. (EJS)

Union catalogs have yet to reach their full potential on the national level or in California. The National Union Catalog and the Union List of Serials in the Libraries of the United States and Canada, although monumental efforts, are far from comprehensive. A survey found that California exhibits most of the problems involved in union catalog…

Examines the background and development of a comprehensive plan designed to improve library service in Pennsylvania. The ACCESS Pennsylvania agenda is described, together with obstacles to its success, particularly funding problems. The effects of the agenda on special libraries are also discussed. (3 references) (MES)

Description of the development of a computer-based resource-sharing program in Massachusetts highlights past planning efforts, development of philosophical basis of network, network activities (development and linking of bibliographic databases, document request and delivery procedures, computer literacy/training for librarians), and issues…

Provides an overview of the development of cooperative library automation and connectivity in Idaho, including telecommunications capacity, library networks, the Internet, and the role of the state library. Information on six shared automation systems in Idaho is included. (LRW)

Discusses the origin and reports on the progress of Project RARE (Rochester Area Resource Exchange), a pilot program initiated by the New York State Regents in 1978 to promote the sharing of resources among public and nonpublic school libraries in the state. (LLS)

Describes the procedures followed by Louisiana public libraries in establishing and operating that state's award winning summer reading program. The cooperative efforts of the state library, state library association, and committees of public librarians are discussed, as is the incorporation of performing artists funded by grants from the state's…

Describes resource sharing system in Illinois academic libraries that allows patrons to borrow materials from other libraries through user-friendly interlibrary loan commands on IBM personal computer terminals. Highlights include experiences at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IBM personal computers as terminals, and increase in…

Reports on an evaluation of the higher levels of California's statewide reference referral network that involved an unobtrusive method utilizing existing records of actual reference transactions evaluated by panel of judges. Reference evaluation methods, findings of other studies, and other uses of the method are discussed. (Nineteen references…

Describes eight multilibrary automation and connectivity initiatives in Alabama that involve public libraries, regional library systems, county library systems, library networks, academic libraries, and public school libraries. Addresses and contact people are supplied for each organization. (LRW)

Examines public library and school library cooperation based on a history of public libraries. Highlights include the development of school libraries and standards; cooperation versus combination; shared library collections; relationships with college libraries; funding; and shared resources at the state level. (LRW)

Describes the events that led to legislation in New Jersey authorizing the establishment of a statewide multitype library network. The discussion covers the two levels of service provided by the network (statewide and regional), specific services available at the regional level, state funding of network services, public response, and plans for…

Briefly reviews the concept of multitype library networking and past attempts at large scale library cooperation, and describes the events that led to the establishment of the California Library Networking Task Force. The three stages anticipated in network development--services, structure, and funding and transition--are outlined, and the current…

Describes a study that designed and tested an interlibrary loan (ILL) measurement tool to be used by all types and sizes of libraries in Illinois. Topics discussed include data collection processes, use of the information for resource sharing, and a continuing education program to help librarians use the ILL forms. Sample forms are appended.…