The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Argues that the key reason for using the services of a library automation consultant is to obtain expertise not available in the library staff, and that the library must continuously evaluate the consulting process and provide feedback to the consultant. Related insights and perspectives of both librarians and library system vendors are provided.…

Seven vendors express their views on the importance of standards to facilitate the linkage of in-house and external computer systems. The subjects addressed include integrated versus linked systems, national and international standards efforts, and the involvement of librarians in the development of standards. (EM)

Discussion of recent developments in personal workstations and software that make it possible to extend the utility of library systems presents the advantages of workstations as well as technical problems and potential solutions. Development of a simple prototype workstation environment at the University of Western Ontario is described. (16…

Eight articles deal with library networking issues: (1) the library role; (2) development of a real computer network; (3) attitudes toward networks; (4) the emergence of local systems; (5) the Western Library Network; (6) the Cooperative Library Agency for Systems and Services; (7) the future of OCLC; and (8) building a unified information…

Offers guidelines for evaluating library system vendor documentation using the following criteria: physical appearance, audience, orientation, structure, consistency, accuracy, completeness, readability, and usability. Several examples illustrate alternative ways to present information. (two references) (MES)

Compares pricing of seven CD-ROM-based public access catalog systems for libraries of diverse sizes and groupings. Other features of the systems are outlined in the broad areas of database preparation, indexing, database updates, hardware, information retrieval, library controlled elements, interlibrary loan, reports, user support, future…

BiblioFile Intelligent Catalog is a CD-ROM-based public access catalog system which incorporates graphics and sound to provide a multisensory interface and artificial intelligence techniques to increase search precision. The system can be updated frequently and inexpensively by linking hard disk drives to CD-ROM optical drives. (MES)

Describes microcomputer-based automation for library applications, noting use of inexpensive (sometimes free) existing programs and software such as dBase II to write or modify programs to meet specific needs. Programs written for the IBM PC-XT to produce serials lists and analyze serials collections are included. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Discussion of using vendors for retrospective conversion of library catalogs rather than in-house projects highlights reasons to consider vendors, four conversion methodologies, and vendor selection criteria (database, non-matches, local data, accuracy, charging, schedule, product delivery time, local system compatibility, MARC format, impact on…

This article examines fiber optic technology, explains some of the key terminology, and speculates about the way fiber optics will change our world. Applications of fiber optics to library systems in three major areas--linkage of a number of mainframe computers, local area networks, and main trunk communications--are highlighted. (EJS)

Characteristics and advantages of database machines are summarized and their applications to library functions are described. The ability to attach multiple hosts to the same database and flexibility in choosing operating and database management systems for different functions without loss of access to common database are noted. (EJS)

Representatives of five library integrated system vendors express their views on ethics and the marketplace, emphasizing the need for ethical behavior by librarians, consultants, and vendors. Four sidebars are included: one on the need for customer data rights standards; others containing the codes of ethics of three professional consultants'…

Examines six steps inherent to development of in-house automated library system: (1) problem definition, (2) requirement specifications, (3) analysis of alternatives and solutions, (4, 5) design and implementation of hardware and software, and (6) evaluation. Practical method for comparing and weighting options is illustrated and explained. A…

Describes the development of the GALAXY Integrated Library System by Gaylord Information Systems. Topics addressed include the library automation business; industry trends, both long-term and short-term; a history of Gaylord's automation ventures; Gaylord's vision of the future; and perspectives from two GALAXY users. (LRW)