Examines options for buying microcomputers (the manufacturer or his/her representative, computer stores, general retail stores, mail order, system integrators, traditional vendors, second-hand). Three major factors are considered: support before sale; price/cost; and support after sale. Advantages and disadvantages of each option and…

This annual feature provides information about products and services for libraries from nearly 440 companies. Access is provided by an alphabetical list of products or services, by an alphabetical listing of suppliers, and by a listing of suppliers by state. (LRW)

This buyer's guide for librarians lists associations, architects, companies (including contact information and Web sites), products, services, magazines, and materials that are geared toward libraries. (LRW)

General areas covered in this review include: micrographics, cataloger's cameras, binding, photocopiers, conservation of library materials, automation, and audiovisual equipment. (Author/SJ)

This issue provides information on products and services for libraries from companies in North America, including a directory of products and services; a directory of suppliers; a shop-at-home supplier locator, organized by state or region; and a manufacturer's catalog and product showcase of paid advertisements. (LRW)

Cites sources of information concerning selection of microform reading equipment and provides step-by-step outline of selection process. Defining specific needs for which equipment is used, determining what equipment is being marketed, and examining and evaluating readers' design features in terms of practicability and aesthetics are discussed.…

Explains how to keep library systems healthy and functioning by taking sensible security measures. Examines why hackers would target library systems and how library systems are compromised. Describes tools that can help, including: firewalls; antivirus software; alarms; network analysis tools; and encryption. Identifies several strategies for…

Describes spyware, discusses how it gets on a computer. Explains how spyware can be useful for parents, employers, and libraries. Discusses how spyware is more often used for others' gain or for surveillance without notification, how it can go undetected, and how libraries can help keep computers and patrons protected from remote installation of…

Describes the developments being made in the videodisc industry with respect to the characteristics of each system, their capabilities, and their potential uses in libraries and other educational settings. (CHC)

Describes the latest developments in automated circulation systems and the turnkey system in particular. Trends include greater functional integration, improved user interfaces, and shared facilities. The role of bibliographic utilities is briefly explored. (Author/RAA)

Discusses some of the problems in creating bibliographic descriptions for materials published in languages which employ nonroman scripts, analyzes the impact of online catalog systems in overcoming some of these difficulties, and describes some of the computer hardware, particularly terminals, being developed to handle nonroman scripts. (JL)

Examines special-purpose entry points to library Web sites. Discusses in-house homepages; branch-specific pages or single library system-wide pages; staff use pages; versions in different languages; "MyLibrary" pages where users can customize the menu; standalone "branded" sites; publicly accessible pages; and best practices.…

Addresses how libraries can prepare for Y2K problems. Discusses technology that might be affected and equipment that should be examined, difficulty of fixing noncompliant hardware and software, identifying problem areas and developing solutions, and dealing with vendors. Includes a checklist of necessary preparations. (AEF)

Discusses precautions which can be taken to minimize loss or damage to library buildings and collections resulting from natural disasters (fires, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, storms). Preventive measures (alarm systems, interior protection), salvage efforts, restoration of collection and library facility, rebuilding collection and…

Explains how a new systems administrator can make good first impressions, become familiar with the library, and take charge. Describes ways of working effectively with equipment and human resources, and outlines types of library staff personalities the systems librarian may encounter. Discusses organizing the data gathered into action plans. (AEF)