After surveying the history and current status of online database searching, this report offers a timeline describing four stages of possible developments for online systems. In the first stage, an expert interface assists CD-ROM-based searching by offering advice about search strategies. Advantages are that search logic can be refined with the help of an expert consultant; however, keyboard input is still required. The next stage features online searching conducted through either keyboard or voice input. A problem is that verbal speech has its own limitations--e.g., pronunciation differences and accents. At the next stage, more sophisticated interactive robotics permit database construction and searches through private conversations between user and system. Its diagnostics make the system capable of learning and improving, and able to adapt to personality requirements of an individual user. However, browsing would be almost impossible and robotics are expensive. The final stage depicts a time when neurotransmission of requests from a searcher's mind directly into the system will make it possible for the computer to respond to thoughts rather than words. A problem with this stage includes the necessity of users' learning to erect mental shields to screen out thoughts not related to the search. (SD)