Discusses database interfaces and explains that collaboration is an important aspect of searching online information retrieval systems that requires explicit computerized support. Collaboration in physical and in digital libraries is discussed and an example of a system that supports collaboration between browsers, ARIADNE, is described. (105…

Developed as part of CEN/ISSS Workshop on Learning Technology efforts to improve interoperability between learning resource repositories, the Simple Query Interface (SQI) is an Application Program Interface (API) for querying heterogeneous repositories of learning resource metadata. In the context of the ProLearn Network of Excellence, SQI is used…

Describes the development of a new interface called GPO Gate for accessing the Government Printing Office (GPO) WAIS (wide area information server) databases, GPO Access. Highlights include development and use of GPO Gate at the University of California, San Diego, and implications for public service. (Author/LRW)

Union catalogs and distributed search systems are two ways users can locate materials in print and electronic formats. This article examines the advantages and limitations of both approaches and argues that they should be considered complementary rather than competitive. Discusses technologies creating linkage between catalogs and databases and…

Describes EasyNet, a gateway service that allows users access to over 900 databases. Use of EasyNet at the University of Richmond (Virginia) libraries is explained, search strategies are discussed, problems with the price structure are examined, and its use both as an end-user service and for mediated searching is described. (LRW)

The increase in end-user searching, the advantages and limitations of front ends, and the role of the librarian in end-user searching are discussed. It is argued that librarians need to recognize that front ends can be of benefit to themselves and patrons, and to assume the role of advisors and educators for end-users. (37 references) (CLB)

Describes the use of the Z39.50 information retrieval protocol as the basis for Infocal, a read-only, client/server-based campus information system. Technical considerations in adapting the protocol to nonbibliographic data, including semantic modules, dynamic attribute sets, and dynamic record syntax, are described in detail. (Contains 11…

Considers how to plan for online reference services. Highlights include local access to databases, including CD-ROM and database licensing; local gateways; online search services; and planning considerations, including cost, locating online information, telecommunications and computing infrastructures, and equal access. (Contains 15 references.)…

Describes the development of an expert system for online patent searching that uses menu driven software to interpret the user's knowledge level and the general nature of the search problem. The discussion covers the rationale for developing such a system, current system functions, cost effectiveness, user reactions, and plans for future…

Reviews 10 federal government bulletin boards that provide information on consumer publications and consumer affairs, agriculture, economics, diseases and research programs, AIDS information, labor-related information, educational statistics and publications, and nuclear power plants. Instructions are provided for accessing the bulletin boards,…

Explains why school libraries need to share resources and describes a number of projects that share physical, intellectual, and digital resources. Highlights include district union catalogs and integrated systems; consortia and community catalogs with public libraries; statewide union catalogs; statewide integrated systems; gateways; and statewide…

The purpose of this guide is to help computer network users get over the hurdle of new technologies. Every Internet user is different, but most network activities depend on the mastery of three basic skills: using electronic mail (e-mail) to communicate with other Internet users; logging in to remote computers with a service called Telnet, and…

Describes the Mann Library Gateway that provides access to an electronic library developed at Cornell University (New York) including indexes, numeric data files, and full text of journal articles and reference works that are available at users' workstations. Highlights include modules of the system; software design; user training and support;…

Arguing that new technologies such as telefacsimile, electronic publishing, and electronic document delivery are altering the processes of communication and the response of libraries to scholars' needs, this paper provides a vision for the future, particularly with regard to the impact of electronic publishing on the traditional roles of academic…

Describes how a university library uses the WorldWideWeb (WWW) to enable users to access resources mounted on a local Z39.50 server and to order prints from articles stored on a CD-ROM jukebox. The software used in the construction of the system, necessary modifications to the software, and software ordering information are covered. (KRN)