Discusses several areas to be considered in planning for library automation: (1) cataloging standards; (2) MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) format; (3) database design; (4) retrospective conversion; (5) REMARC, a retrospective conversion service; (6) MiniMARC, a stand-alone cataloging support system; (7) copy-specific file conversion; and (8)…

Discusses the pros and cons of library cooperation as exemplified by interlibrary loan and OCLC. Moving away from cooperation toward the more intensive use of local systems is suggested as one alternative for the future. (MES)

This report describes the development of the Forest Trail Library Consortium (FTLC), a network of academic, public, and school libraries in Texas. The growth of FTLC from 4 charter members to its current 16 members is traced, including details about goals and funding. The role of special interest groups (SIGs) is examined, and the goals and…

Based on information and documents gathered from 103 Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries via an April 1986 ARL Recon Project questionnaire, and supplemented with additional interviews and materials gathered throughout the year, this publication focuses on retrospective conversion projects designed to support the implementation…

Describes the evolution of the library control system at the Ohio State University library from a circulation control system to a full online catalog with subject access and authority control. The needs of users which prompted the development and possible future enhancements are discussed. (CLB)

Describes the Hawaii Department of Education's School Library Network Project and its approach to retrospective conversion for more than 200 school library media centers using a combination of 3 methods: in-house, full data entry; in-house, partial data entry; and full vendor contract. It is noted that a combination of these methods provides the…

Describes a national plan for university libraries in Brazil that recommends a center for computerized cataloging, standard cataloging formats, and the development of an online library network. Discussion focuses on problems associated with online network implementation, such as computer import restrictions, changes in government agencies, and a…

Reviews research published between 1988 and 1991 in technical services in the areas of acquisitions, including automation, costs, and vendor analysis; authority control; automation; cataloging, including costs and time analysis, rules and theory, expert systems, online catalogs, and shared cataloging; classification; preservation; serials; subject…

This issue is devoted to examining current and possible future trends in library technical services. Highlights include professional and nonprofessional staffing; library automation; bibliographic utilities; cataloging; shared online catalogs; Serials of Illinois Libraries Online (SILO), a union list program; long-range planning; and optical…

These five articles offer a review of recent developments as reported in the literature in the areas of library technical services automation, serials, acquisitions and collection development, descriptive cataloging, and subject analysis. Highlights include shared resources, new technologies, cost factors, and trends for the future. (495…

Describes complementary characteristics of computing centers and libraries that could be combined to form the core of information support centers and discusses the possible impact on library processes and services. The use of telecommunications networks to reduce costs and increase efficiency in academic libraries is also examined. (CLB)

Discusses the need for resource sharing among libraries to go beyond traditional interlibrary loans. Topics addressed include resource sharing via circulation; a new publishing model; shared cataloging, acquisitions, serials control, management, personnel and expertise, and facilities; paying for services; and the role of networks. (LRW)

This report begins by describing the American Library Association (ALA) Library/Book Fellows program, which began with a grant from the U.S. Information Agency in 1986. The program has a threefold purpose: (1) to increase international understanding through the establishment of professional and personal relationships and the accomplishment of…

These two reports describe the status of automation in Illinois public school and private and parochial school libraries, particularly relating to shared library resources. Results of a survey of other states' school library automation systems and resource sharing are reported, cataloging is discussed, and access to other databases is examined.…