Identifies two types of applications software for microcomputers: (1) communications, file transfer, and search assistance software, which facilitates intelligent access to external databases; and (2) software to support local database creation and searching. Functions of each type of software are described and examples of commercial packages are…

Describes the development of Bookshelf, a multi-user microcomputer system for small libraries that uses an integrated software package. The discussion covers the design parameters of the package, which were based on a survey of seven small libraries, and some characteristics of the software. (three notes with references) (CLB)

This sixth article in a series discusses planning for the installation and implementation of automated systems in the library, workstation design and location, scheduling of software implementation, security, data input, staff and reader training, job design, impact of automation on library procedures, evaluation of system performance, and future…