This paper provides information workers with some practical approaches to the design, development, and use of local databases that form components of information storage and retrieval systems (ISR) and of automated library operations. Topics discussed include: (1) course objectives for the design and development of local databases for library and information science (LIS) personnel; (2) use of off-the-shelf software; (3) database design as an integrated process, based on knowledge gained in several modules of an information studies program; (4) library documentation techniques and their usefulness in information technology application; (5) integrated information systems (IIS); and (6) prototypes of information databases and information storage and retrieval systems including LIST; the Integrated Information System, a medical ISR made up of PREMA and SYNDRO; and university-designed prototypes. (3 references) (CGD)