Discusses the reasons and methods for retrospective conversion of library catalog data into machine-readable form. The need for standards is emphasized and suggestions are given for documenting local standards. Ideas are included for completing the conversion of a project done by a vendor, where some parts may have been overlooked. (Author/EM)

Describes the development of CONSER, a cooperative effort by libraries to create, maintain, and distribute quality bibliographic and cataloging information that conforms to national standards for serial cataloging. Issues involved in each phase of the project are discussed. (16 references) (CLB)

This second article on standardization in the application of computerized automation to materials in special collections libraries focuses on map collections and archives. Highlights include the use of bibliographic utilities; MARC formats; the use of microcomputers; databases; and examples from North America and Western Europe. (Contains 18…

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;…

Discusses the impact of changing library technologies on the role of technical services personnel. The areas discussed include online library systems, bibliographic utilities, networking trends, the proliferation of serials, electronic publishing, and the increased need for quality control in technical processes. (32 references) (CLB)

This examination of the relationships between bibliographic utilities, online vendors, and local systems in the automated library environment, discusses library autonomy and standards, as well as customized options and quality of service offered by utilities and vendors. Suggestions are offered for maintaining relationships in a changing…

Reviews the concept, context, status, and potential of the Linked Systems Protocol. The discussion covers the functions of the protocol; its implications for scholarship, bibliographic access, and the notion of a national database; and problems that would affect the effective implementation of international use. (21 references) (Author/CLB)

This report describes a demonstration of cooperative cataloging of nonprint media in a network environment. The project was jointly managed by the Indiana Department of Public Instruction and the Indiana Cooperative Library Services Authority (INCOLSA), a state-wide multi-type library network. Staff at large school library media centers in Indiana…

Discusses how collections in the digital library, instead of traditional cataloging, call for metadata, structured information about information. Describes three categories of metadata information about digital resources: descriptive, structural, and administrative. Examines emerging standards for digital-library classification. (AEF)