The attempts of the International Standard Bibliographic Description (ISBD) and the International Serials Data System (ISDS) to achieve internationally a greater compatibility of cataloging standards are criticized on two points: (a) the difficulty of automatic recognition of some of the fields; and (b) the difficulty of interfiling descriptions…

Presents program guidelines for training library staff in the operation and use of automated library circulation systems. Advice is given on the qualificatons of the training coordinator, levels of training, training and training aids, vendor responsibilities and time frame. (RAA)

An analysis of the codification practices of bibliographic descriptions reveals a multiplicity of ways to solve the problem of the special processing of certain characters within a bibliographic element. (Author)

A study was made of existing methods of dealing with the initial articles (a, an, the) of several languages in computerized catalog records. A new strategy is suggested to reduce the error rate. (LS)

This paper examines the development of NUC reporting in machine-readable form and MARC record distribution. Some technical requirements are identified and discussed in terms of their implications for a redefinition of MARC format. (Author/KP)

Two models for circulation systems (manual and automated) costing are presented. Validation tests for the model assumptions are devised and explained. Use of the models for cost effectiveness comparison and for cost prediction are discussed and examples are given showing their application. (10 references) (Author/SJ)

Talents of personnel needed in the design team, their qualifications and organization, attitudes, and communication and documentation, important for effective teamwork are discussed. (AB)

Careful attention to the selection of an appropriate microformat and viewing equipment can successfully extend the effectiveness of computer output microfilm to include patron-use library automation applications. (Author)

Variety-generator approach seeks to reflect the microstructure of data elements in their description for storage and search, and takes advantage of the consistency of statistical characteristics of data elements in homogeneous data bases. (Author)

Software, hardware, procedural, and operational components of the California State University and Colleges systemwide approach to library automation are reviewed with specific emphasis on the time periods involved, the phasing of implementation, and finally, the costs and benefits anticipated from this project. (Author)

The proceedings of an October 1974 institute on automated serials control are summarized. (Author/PF)

Summarizes the formal presentations of an institute considering all aspects of the catalog--its use as a tool consulted by librarians and patrons, the impact of centralized cataloging on bibliographic control, and the impact of technological advances on the format of the catalog. (Author/PF)

Simon Fraser University library began operation with an automated circulation system. A radically revised loan policy caused the system design and assumptions to be questioned. A cheaper, simpler, and more effective off-line system eventually replaced the on-line system. The systems, fiscal, and administrative implications of this decision are…

A synopsis of the third progress report provides an overview of RECON production, format recognition, research titles, microfilming and investigation of input devices. (AB)

The history of library computerization from its initiation in 1954 to 1970 is described. Approximately the first half of the period was devoted to computerization of user-oriented subject information retrieval and the second half to library-oriented programs. (Author)