Discusses the developments that have positively or adversely affected abstracting and indexing services over the past several decades, addressing such topics as the impact of computers and the migration from print-on-paper to online information provision. Forecasts for the near and long-term future are made and a reference list is included. (JL)

This paper discusses several of the trends in information handling for text-based storage and retrieval systems that are prevalent in the United States. The paper considers, in particular, specialized information products, cooperative and networking activities, and work on standards. Information products include current awareness abstract…

The vice president of a computerized information center discusses her career history, the development of information services and the database industry, current information technologies and the role of artificial intelligence, characteristics of indexers and abstractors employed, the kind of training needed by abstractors and indexers, and…

Reviews the electronic journals and online services marketplace. Discusses fees; types of materials that are accessible; search engines and compatibility with Web browsers; information currency; types and number of sources available and numbers; archives; indexing, abstracting and full text titles; electronic delivery; technological development;…