Discussion of the drawbacks of remote storage and microforms as solutions to library storage and retrieval problems covers the advantages and disadvantages of moveable compact shelving, i.e., electrically-powered shelving which eliminates all but one aisle in any set of ranges of shelving. This system is recommended as the answer to storage…

Comparison of conventional book stacks, moving aisle book stacks, and industrial storage techniques shows that the industrial technique is the least expensive to build, maintain, and operate. Characteristics of automated storage and retrieval systems are discussed, and formulas for calculating the size and costs of a library system are presented.…

Outlines factors used by online vendors to decide whether to bid on RFPs (requests for proposals) for library automation systems, including specifications for software, hardware or performance requirements not met by the vendor; specifications based on competitors' systems; the size and complexity of the request itself; and vendors' time…

Several online vendors address the issue of RFPs (requests for proposals) for library systems, discussing the documents' style, technical standards, library expectations, liabilities associated with using this procedure, factors in the decision to bid, and the need for a standardized document and national clearinghouse. (CLB)

Description of the Kurzweil Reading Machine, which uses a special camera and computer to transform printed matter into synthetic speech; includes reading and sound production, machine operation, adjusting to different typefaces, and limitations. Review of the portable reading aid for the partially sighted, Viewscan, discusses characteristics,…

Describes use of RFPs (requests for proposals) to specify requirements for automated library systems and presents advice on when to use RFPs, how to construct the statements, and how to present library needs and priorities so that maximum success in choosing a vendor and system are achieved. (Author/CLB)

This directory to the cataloging marketplace lists 57 places to obtain cataloging cards and products in eight categories: utilities, catalog cards only-vendors, COM catalog/database management vendors, software packages, Library of Congress (LC) cataloging information vendors (non-computerized), and publishers. Vendors' addresses, telephone…

Describes guidelines for an online public access catalog (OPAC) workstation that will support the terminal, printer, and other peripherals. Workstation dimensions, lighting, wire management, printer and paper, acoustical treatment, seating, storage for books and coats, wastebasket, and interior decoration are addressed. Flexibility and simplicity…

Bibliographic essay presents citations to recent books and articles dealing with problems of providing library services to the disabled, particularly the visually impaired, and to sources that describe technological equipment in detail. Ways to identify libraries that use the equipment to obtain evaluative information are suggested. Twenty-two…

Eight articles review the progress achieved in making library computing technologies and library services accessible to people with disabilities. Adaptive technologies, automated conversion into Braille, and successful programs that demonstrate compliance with the American with Disabilities Act are described. A resource list is included. (EA)

The recent history of facsimile use in libraries is described, including detailed reports of its use and usefulness at specific libraries. Three major issues to be addressed in deciding to adopt telefacsimile for document delivery (need, copy quality, and cost) are explored. (Author/CLB)