The question: What is an IMC (instructional materials center)?" is explored and guidelines for evaluating the operation of an IMC are given. (NH)

The correct strategy for any contemplated requirements study is precisely whatever management needs at the time to make a good intuitive choice among alternate courses of action--no more and no less. (19 references) (Author)

Systems analysis, as a prelude to library automation, is an inevitable commonplace fact of life in libraries. Maturation of library automation and the systems analysis which precedes its implementation is observed in this article. (55 references) (Author/TW)

There is little need to write about procedures now being used in library systems analysis. Instead, one should focus attention on underlying principles and implicit processes used by analysts, concentrating on the role of the analyst in the inquiry process. (17 references) (Author)

At a time when libraries are adopting systems analysis as an integral part of their management structure, systems analysts are voicing grave concern about their ability to deliver the kinds of systems libraries need. (11 references) (Author)

Identifies various facets of the use of consultants in library automation, including kinds of consultants, their roles, contexts in which they may be used, functional areas in which their values may differ, and equipment alternatives. A bibliography is provided. (FM)

A systems study or analysis is indispensible when a library faces these problems: (1) increased demands of library users; (2) increases in book funds; (3) increase in interinstitutional cooperation; and (4) inability of professional staff to realize the professional potential for creative endeavor. (42 references) (Author/TW)

When all of the analysis has been done, and the studies have disclosed that it is time to implement a computer-based procedure to secure the desired objectives, several problems arise. One problem is that of building the data file which will form the basis for the new procedure. (Author)

Describes major changes made in bibliographic control systems in the past three decades and discusses why these changes have occurred. (Author)

Systems analysis can and should be used in any situation where there is a need to measure performance and a reasonable possibility of being able to develop more efficient routines. Increasingly, systems analysis is being used by librarians in other areas of library activity, such as budgeting and management. (29 references) (Author)

Systems analysis, in this context, is not the process which is the necessary prelude to library automation; it is something more basic. It involves seeking out the fundamentals of a situation and applying scientific methods to their study, to find an optimal solution to the problems facing the manager. (20 references) (Author/TW)

Provides historical perspectives on preservation of records and highlights needs in library preservation, including a systems or engineering approach to conservation problem solving. Current educational efforts of Library of Congress and United States library schools such as School of Library Service at Columbia University are outlined. Two…

For libraries to succeed, a clear understanding of what services are in demand is necessary. The SWOT analysis technique for evaluating an organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats is examined, and barriers to effective diagnosis are discussed. (AEF)