Presents the results of a comparative evaluation of four CD-ROM retrieval software packages using the Revised Richards-Brown CD-ROM Software Evaluation Model. CD Answer, SPIRS, KAware2, and ROMware are evaluated, and results indicate that SPIRS and CD Answer are the favored packages. (LRW)

Discusses literature available on CD-ROMs, including children's literature, beginning writer packages, literary CD-ROMs, and literary companions. Asserts that the multimedia aspects of CD-ROM technology facilitate depth of understanding of the literature. Includes a sidebar with CD-ROM publisher contact information. (JKP)

This user ratings survey focuses on bibliographic citation management software; its value to manage citation databases; and its ability to provide reports that adhere to standard bibliographic styles for publications. Service and support, reliability, ease of use, vendor integrity, and user satisfaction are discussed for each of seven software…

Introduces the information superhighway (the Internet), and presents a guide to navigating it. Offers basic instruction on obtaining and learning to use network accounts; locating addresses using Archie and Wide Area Information Server; retrieving information using file transfer protocol; utilizing Gopher to find and retrieve; browsing the World…

Access to database information in libraries will increase as licenses for tape loading of data onto public access catalogs becomes more widespread. Institutions with adequate storage capacity will have full text databases, and the adoption of the Z39.50 standard, which allows differing computer systems to interface with each other, will increase…

Discussion of the role of microcomputers in information transfer focuses on CD-ROMs and national and international government organizations as data producers and disseminators. Microcomputers and the information industry in developing nations are examined; dissemination of information from international organizations is described; and the United…

Notebook computers of increasing power and portability offer unique advantages to library users. Connecting easily to a campus data network, they are small silent work stations capable of drawing information from a variety of sources. Designers of new library buildings may assume that users in growing numbers will carry these multipurpose…

Summarizes issues raised at a seminar on electronic libraries that was held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Topics discussed include network development; CD-ROM; technology costs; the relationship between academic computing centers and libraries; development of a national Information Infrastructure (II); digital library systems…

Describes steps in renovating information service tools: (1) review why organization exists; (2) refocus direction to keep in step with clients and environment; and (3) redefine client's needs. Old tools (books and journals) can be transformed via technology into new tools (full-text CD-ROM products and online interlibrary loan services). (JMV)