Presents overview of library uses of automation, noting the earliest example of a "black box" in 1588, the "indicator" invented in England in 1863, various forms of card catalogs, and computer solutions posed by Vannevar Bush, J. C. R. Licklider, Project Intrex, and John G. Kemeny. Ten references are cited. (EJS)

This overview of new products from library equipment manufacturers includes shelving and storage systems for print and non-print materials, reading aids for the visually impaired and physically handicapped, library materials repair and maintenance products, audiovisual equipment, microfilm readers, and microfilm duplicators. (JAB)

The results of an experiment on the usefulness of closed circuit television (CCTV) for 106 partially sighted visitors to a library in Copenhagen, Denmark, is presented. A large percentage of participants who had been unable to read before the experiment found that they could read with CCTV. (Author)

Library planning in Indian colleges and universities is reviewed with focus on location and size, layout, lighting and ventilation, furniture, special facilities such as photocopying machines, and library extension activities. (LBH)

Presents a model for the evaluation of database management systems software from the viewpoint of librarians and information specialists. The properties of data management systems, database management systems, and text retrieval systems are outlined and compared. (10 references) (CLB)

This publication provides the latest information available on the equipment and operation of mobile libraries operating out of road vehicles. The guide provides details on the establishment of mobile library services, financing, vehicles, furniture and equipment, staffing, collections, service base, and publicity. Some generalizations with regard…

Based mainly on the experiences of seven Dutch public libraries during a 5-year study, this report discusses issues related to the integration of audiovisual materials and equipment into existing library collections. Following a brief introduction, its contents are divided into chapters: (1) Collection Building; (2) Processing; (3) Cataloguing;…

This paper discusses the current resurgence of interest in authority files and describes the automated authority files of the National Library of Canada. Factors contributing to this interest in such files include cooperative programs between libraries, the development of international standards, and the impact of computer technology and…

Discusses a formula for determining number of microfiche readers needed in public libraries based on a Los Angeles County Public Library study weighing library size, user population, and information disseminating activity. Data on number of microfiche readers available to public in randomly selected Canadian public libraries are presented.…

Briefly discusses the development of two types of public libraries in Iran, i.e., those libraries under the administration of the Ministry of Islamic Culture and Guidance, and those administered by the Ministry of Education. The organization, staff, buildings and equipment, collections, and services of both types of libraries are described. (CLB)

Describes outreach services at the Calgary Public Library, Canada which are designed to meet the needs of disabled and elderly patrons. Space requirements, library equipment, staffing, and services offered are discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Describes the selection of a library computer system for the University College of the Northern Territory in Australia. The criteria used in developing a cost-effective system, advantages and disadvantages of the resulting system, and possible applications to libraries in developing nations are discussed. (CLB)

To identify areas where seats could be removed to accommodate a growing collection, the University of Wollongong (New South Wales, Australia) library surveyed patron seating usage. The survey supported a 12% reduction in seating, which enabled the installation of additional shelving and a compactus to store 20,000 volumes while having a minimal…

Examines the decline in funding to Nigerian university libraries as a result of harsh economic conditions in Nigeria and the effects on user satisfaction with information services provided by the libraries. Strategies to achieve user satisfaction in spite of declining resources are suggested. (10 references) (CLB)

The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs Library began a small automation project when complete library automation was not possible. Despite limitations, the library has successfully integrated technology into its daily operations, including computer literacy programs for the staff, maintaining offline circulation records, and producing…