Discusses debates that still continue over the value of card catalogs versus online catalogs and other library technology. Highlights include user opinions and needs, libraries being ahead of users in the use of technology, the information age, the value of cataloging, full-text searching, meaning extraction, dataspaces, and the Internet. (LRW)

Describes two options that can address the issues of catalog production in a bilingual environment: a two-file option, which is the equivalent of a separate catalog for each language, and a totally bilingual catalog. The technical characteristics of each option, and the appropriateness of each for different user communities, are discussed. (eight…

Discusses possibility of using expert systems to develop new model in cataloging theory made necessary by technological progress, rising user expectations, and economic pressures. A data structure for bibliographic information required by Anglo American Cataloging Rules, 2nd edition, (AACR2) is suggested, and possible heuristics for interpreting…

Discusses the growth of OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) into a worldwide bibliographic utility. Topics include cataloging standards; subject access in languages appropriate to the users; local needs versus global usefulness; character sets; international name authority file; ISBD (International Standard Bibliographic Description) principles;…

The 17 papers in this collection address aspects of quality data and quality of service to clients and the links between the two. Two keynote addresses are included: "A Plea for Quality Cataloguing with a Consideration of the Audience for Our Product" and "Rare Book Cataloging with the Audience Again Considered" (both by J. B.…

Five brief papers explore the issues of "ownership" and proprietary interest in the online catalog, relationships between technical services and public services in the design and management of the catalog, and opportunities presented by the new technologies to alter ways of working together. (CLB)

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)

In 1996, the National Library of Australia processed over 500,000 Chinese, Japanese, and Korean USMARC records through a program that identified data in the Wade-Giles romanization scheme and converted it to the more user-friendly Pinyin scheme. Describes the program development, its use in Australia, and the feasibility of an alternate…

Discusses the processing of Arabic materials at the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (Saudi Arabia) library and describes the creation of an Arabic online catalog that supplements the catalog for non-Arabic materials. User needs are reviewed, library automation is discussed, and search strategies in the Arabic catalog are described.…

Identifies library values affected by technology, including respect for and privacy of the individual, equality of user needs, and freedom of purpose and access. Fundamental changes that may result from technology are predicted in the areas of the library role, functions of staff, fees for services and document delivery, and costs of local and…

Reports how the Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Research Library migrated to the Horizon integrated library system. Discusses migration processes including project planning and implementation, client/server issues, data migration, and staff/end-user training. Reviews system modules including acquisitions, cataloging, serials control, public access, and…

Reviews the Total Library Computerization program, which can be used to manage small to midsized libraries. Discusses costs; operating system requirements; security features; user-interface styles; and system modules including online cataloging, circulation, serials control, acquisitions, authorities control, and interlibrary loan. (Author/JMV)

Argues for simplification in the use and development of bibliographic standards to increase usability by librarians and patrons and to reduce costs for libraries. The application of technology such as hypertext is also considered. (EA)

This collection of 23 articles compiled from school library journals address the special needs that make automation problematic for school libraries. The articles are divided into five sections: an overview of OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) development (4 titles); evaluating OPAC systems (4 titles); implementing OPAC systems (6 titles);…

This self-study report begins by reviewing the history of the Shafer Library at Findlay College (Ohio) from 1968 until 1978, when the staff, director, and college reexamined its goals and objectives, particularly with reference to budgetary constraints and new academic and curricular developments. The report then analyzes the functions and…