Identifies problems experienced when libraries introduce computerized systems in countries remote from major centers of development, i.e., level of expertise, limited market, financial aspects, type of hardware and software available. Solutions to problems through cooperation and coordination of library computerization and Republic of South Africa…

Investigated how users reacted to breakdown situations that generated error messages when browsing the Web. Results showed error messages were not helpful to users in diagnosing the cause of the problem and suggests the need for a model of Web browsing that would be available for users to learn from the error messages. (Author/LRW)

Three separate articles present advantages and disadvantages of microcomputer use in libraries and some guidelines for determining whether their use is appropriate. Highlights include potential of microcomputers for improving existing situations; merits of automation; health hazards posed by microcomputers; man-machine interface difficulties;…

Discusses library archival information as an essential element in librarians ability to establish themselves as competitive providers of information; describes problems with conventional archive storage methods; recommends recordable CD-ROMs for an electronic archiving media; and gives an example of document management software used with…

Discussion of disinformation in the mass media focuses on present and future possibilities of disinformation on the Internet. Highlights include six forms of disinformation; the mishandling of information; voluntary disinformation; the gap between information providers and users; and strategies for avoiding disinformation, including quality…

Discusses digital intellectual property rights relating to peer-to-peer networks, using Napster as an example. Suggests anti-piracy solutions to prevent litigation and considers how libraries can develop potential service models using peer-to-peer networks, including the development of personal libraries on the Internet, interlibrary loan,…

Discusses the use of MARC format in relational databases and addresses problems of incompatibilities. A solution is presented that is in accordance with Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) standards and is based on experiences at the library of the Universidad Politecnica de Valencia (Spain). (four references) (EA)

Discussion of public access microcomputer service areas in public libraries covers walk-in access, software/hardware circulation, online call-in services, and special programs. Principles for successful public access programs are also discussed, including hardware/software selection. Problems relating to equipment breakdown, diskette storage, and…

Relates problems prompted by implementation of online circulation and cataloging systems in Polytechnic of North London's Library Service. Conversion of records from former card catalog to computer file and organizational problems (position of central technical services unit, position of Library Service in total information handling structure of…

Discussion of problems that organizations face regarding the selection, management, and accession of information services focuses on the extent to which document information systems (DIS) and text management systems (TMS) can improve the management and accessibility of information sources. Examples of TMS applications are described. (11…

Discussion of the role and status of academic libraries in China focuses on automation efforts. Microcomputer-based applications are described; problems are discussed; and technological advances are considered. It is concluded that CD-ROMs in conjunction with microcomputers should be used in the majority of Chinese academic libraries. (10…

Describes the Book House, an interactive, multimedia online public access catalog (OPAC) developed in Denmark that uses icons, text, and animation. An alternative design model that addresses problems in OPACs is described; and database design, system navigation, use for fiction retrieval, and evaluation are discussed. (20 references) (MES)

Argues that false assumptions about user needs implicit in methodologies for building information systems have resulted in inadequate and inflexible systems. Checkland's Soft Systems Methodology is examined as a useful alternative. Its fundamental features are described, and examples of models demonstrate how the methodology can facilitate…

Summarizes the nature and status of videotex, and describes current applications by libraries and information centers, including community information dissemination and information retrieval from bibliographic databases. Prospective uses of videotex and library applications are discussed as well as problems to be overcome before effective videotex…

Considers barriers which inhibit the development of information technology in Latin America and the Caribbean. Highlights include research in science and technology; the publishing industry; information transfer; indigenous database development; and options for developing countries, including national information policies, computer education, and…