bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Telecommunications to Networking: The MELVYL Online Union Catalog and the Development of Intercampus Networks at the University of California
Authors: Lynch Clifford A.
Published: February 2008

Over the past eight years, the MELVYL catalog has become one of the largest public access catalogs in the world, and now plays a central role in providing access to the library resources of the University of California. Currently, under heavy load, the MELVYL catalog supports many hundreds of simultaneous terminal connections, servicing over a quarter of a million queries a week and displaying more than two million records a week to its user community. This article discusses the history of the network that has supported the MELVYL catalog from the early days of its prototype to the present. It also describes both the current technical and policy issues that must be addressed as the network moves into the 1990s, and the roles that the network is coming to play in integrating local automation, the union catalog, access to resource databases, and other initiatives. Sidebars discuss the TCP/IP protocol suite, internet protocol gateways, and Telenet and related inter‐operability problems.
The Statewide Automation Planning Process in New York
Authors: Smith Frederick E. , Messmer George E.J.
Published: February 2008

The New York Stale Library and the library systems in New York State have a long‐standing commitment to the use of technology to improve services, increase efficiency, and constrain cost increases. In 1986, the Board of Regents of the State Education Department adopted a three‐part program for automation. Pursuant to this program, several important committees have been appointed that have subsequently issued key recommendations. This article addresses the formation and role of the committees and their recommendations covering: general issues, databases, linking, training and consulting, and operational objectives.
The Computer and Personal Privacy, Part III: The Regulation of Computer Records in the United States
Authors: Rogers Rubin Michael
Published: February 2008

The major federal and state laws that govern the privacy aspects of the use of computer data banks fall into three types of relationships between individuals and institutions: 1) individuals dealing with private institutions such as colleges or universities, 2) individuals interacting with state and local governments; and 3) individuals interacting with the federal government. A separate section is devoted to each of these relationships, containing assessments of the effectiveness of the legal mechanisms that mediate them. The ability of privacy laws that are presently on the books to protect us from abusive information collection, dissemination, and management practices is specifically considered.
dBase IV: A Review
Authors: Dennis Donald D. , Paster Mark C.
Published: February 2008

The database manager ranks with the word processor and the spreadsheet as being one of the most important applications software packages for the small computer. A relational database system allows two or more databases to be used concurrently, the manipulation of one affecting the manipulation of the others. A circulation system is a good example of a relatively simple relational database management system. dBASE IV, microcomputer‐based package that can be employed for many library applications, is compared to its predecessor, dBASE III Plus, and is recommended pending elimination of existing bugs.
The WELMED Database Management System: A Case Study in System Design and Applications
Authors: Moore Gary
Published: February 2008

The long‐term goal for integrated information management at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions is the creation of a knowledge management environment—a network of databases that an individual would tap as one would one's own memory. An important library component in this emerging environment is WELMED, a general purpose bibliographic database management system that permits the library to distribute its databases and related services to its users through common, customizable interfaces. The characteristics and components of the WELMED system are detailed.
Design Considerations for an OPAC Workstation: An Introduction to Specifications and a Model Configuration
Authors: Martin Ron G.
Published: February 2008

Academic libraries that are replacing the traditional card catalog with the online public access catalog (OPAC) are faced with a number of complex and difficult decisions regarding the shape and design of the OPAC workstation. This article provides guidelines and recommendations for an OPAC workstation that will support the terminal, printer, and other peripherals. Emphasis is placed on the library's commitment to flexibility when designing a workstation that will serve the needs of users for several years.
System Documentation: A Symposium on Printed Documentation for Computer Systems
Authors: Kaplan Denise , Mischo Lare , Bills Linda , Matthews Joe , Rosenberg Victor , Anderson Barbara E. , Alley Brian , LaRue James
Published: February 2008

Good system documentation is the backbone to the success of any automated system, for only through complete and thorough documentation can the user fully understand and utilize a system's capability. This symposium focuses on printed documentation and the many related applications that affect the daily lives of computer users. Printed documentation takes different forms, including user and reference manuals, tutorials, reference cards, and “cheat sheets.” The various forms are produced by both system vendors and system users, the latter frequently adapting and modifying vendor‐prepared documentation to reflect local practice and meet specialized training needs.
Staff Training in the Automated Library Environment: A Symposium
Authors: Glogoff Stuart , Kriz Harry M. , Kelly Queijo Z. , Wilson Thomas C. , Hammerstrand Kristine , Renford Beverly L. , Cronin Mary J. , Cunningham Katherine W. , Gordon Richard
Published: February 2008

As libraries increasingly automate and provide external access to their resources, a continual and growing need emerges for training of staff who implement, employ, and support these systems, and, in turn, train end‐users to exploit their new capabilities. The objectives and training techniques that have been adopted by individual institutions and technology providers vary, some being broadly structured toward educating staff members to function in the emerging electronic (virtual) library environment, some being more narrowly structured to facilitate adaptation and use of a specific new system that is being implemented. This symposium expresses the diverse training needs, experiences, and practices adopted by individual libraries, by consortia comprising a large number of libraries, by technology vendors striving to serve their library customers, and by academic computing services that share strategic responsibility for implementing online access to library resources.
Desktop Research and Software Connectivity
Authors: Rosenberg Victor
Published: February 2008

“Desktop research” encompasses the various tools that a scholar requires in the course of his or her work. The “scholar's workstation” of the future will involve several software packages from a number of developers to accomplish the tasks required in doing research and creating publications. To function effectively, the programs must be able to interact with each other and communicate data. A common user interface will ease the learning of each new addition to the software repertoire. A model workstation is discussed that allows searching of bibliographic databases or library catalogs, the assembly of bibliographies, the ordering and acquisition of documents, as well as the preparation of manuscripts.
Computer Room Fire Protection
Authors: Price Bennett J.
Published: February 2008

Fire protection has several components: prevention, containment, detection, and suppression. While building codes and inspectors generally do not require special construction techniques or fire protection systems for computer rooms, economic and service factors may dictate that special protection be given such facilities. This article discusses emergency planning, the various types of fire detection and suppression systems, and future options, with particular attention given to halon and possiblehalon‐replacements.
Planning to Implement the Planning Process: Automation at the Clearinghouse for the Institute of Imaginary Filmmakers—A Preliminary Report
Authors: Forrest Charles
Published: February 2008

Whether to just go with the flow, or to develop a strategic plan that essentially achieves going with the flow—that is the question. It is undoubtedly preferable that a strategic plan be developed because the illusion of developing and implementing such a plan conveys the image of professionalism. And it is unquestionably more desireable, particularly for a library administrator, to be viewed as professional as opposed to the alternatives. The Institute of Imaginary Filmmakers executive board chairperson presents a case study that enumerates the planning process implemented at, and the advantages of planning that accrued to, the institute.
Resolution for a New Decade: Selecting a Computer Display
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

While PC‐compatible computing becomes ever more complex and confusing, some aspects do achieve clarity. One such aspect, according to the author, is the choice of display. For most users, that choice may be clearer now than at any time in the last six years. Indeed, clarity and aspect both enter into the decision: specifically, greater clarity through higher resolution, and an aspect ratio that finally makes sense. Some informal notes on the history of display “standards” for MS‐DOS computing lead up to a discussion of the current situation. There's still more than one choice to make; the author discusses the reasons why one set of choices, which the author doesn't currently use, may be more sensible than other alternatives. Don't expect equally clear‐cut advice on printers: the author briefly notes why that doesn't appear feasible at this point. That brief discussion is followed by a smorgasbord of citations from the PC literature for July‐September 1989.
FROM AMOEBA TO REQUEST:
Authors: Uricchio William , Duffy Michelle
Published: February 2008

CircCess, a 35‐member library network, was moving toward a major system upgrade when it discovered that the planned system would not support Boolean functions. An alternative approach to providing a shared catalog and linked circulation functions was sought, resulting in a CD‐ROM‐based solution. The process of developing the concept, unexpected problems associated with selecting a vendor, delays and problems resulting from an expansion of the original concept, and related issues are detailed.
Planning an on‐premise telecommunication system: The University of Michigan case study—part two of two: construction and implementation
Authors: Wilhelm Leslie (Southwick)
Published: February 2008

The University of Michigan's telecommunications system cost $38,000,000 to build, includes 30,000 lines, and processes 14,000,000 calls monthly. It is one of the largest private systems in the world. The process of implementing and managing such a massive system, which affected every office, lab, dorm room, and family‐residence on campus, and impacted literally every member of the campus community—to say nothing of the surrounding town—is discussed. This case study presents the issues and problems that other institutions—regardless of size—may face as they upgrade their telecommunication capabilities in the years ahead.
Sidebar 3: anatomy of a fiber optic network
Authors: Wilhelm Leslie (Southwick)
Published: February 2008

Like Rome, the University of Michigan's campus‐wide fiber optic network was not built in a day. During an intense three‐week period in May 1988, Pradeep Patel, Transmission Engineer at University Telecommunications, managed to squeeze in 210 hours to complete the detailed engineering plans for the campus‐wide fiber optic network. Prior to this period, Patel and other UMTel and Information Technology Division employees were involved in every stage of network specification and implementation. Designing a practical, workable cable layout for a network covering 25 miles and connecting 72 buildings was no small job.
Search trees for subject searching in online catalogs
Authors: Markey Drabenstott Karen , Vizine‐Goetz Diane
Published: February 2008

Search trees presented in this article control system responses and determine appropriate subject searching approaches to user queries. Users do not explicitly choose a particular approach. Rather, systems respond with an approach based on the extent to which queries match the catalog's controlled vocabulary and produce retrievals. The benefit of incorporating search trees into online bibliographic systems is the ability to place the responsibility of determining which approach produces the best results on the system.
THE Randtriever: Its use at the Ohio State University
Authors: VanBrimmer Barbara , Sawyers Elizabeth
Published: February 2008

Of all first generation automated storage and retrieval (AS/R) systems installed in libraries in the United States, the most complex and ambitious installation was at the Health Sciences Library at Ohio State University. The system was designed to have twelve aisles, but only eight were installed, along with four calling stations/circulation desks located at both ends of the machine on each of two floors of the library. The system, which originally cost $811,799, required constant maintenance resulting in expenditures of $889,191 through June 1990, plus $139,575 for conversion/renovation of the system in recent years. In 1989, the university made the decision to remove the Randtriever in conjunction with anticipated expansion and renovation of the library. A sidebar by Eric Jayjohn compares the Rand‐triever with contemporary AS/R technology.
The Randtriever at Erasmus University, Rotterdam—1969–1990: Two decades of change in mechanical books storage
Authors: Meyboom Leen
Published: February 2008

In April 1969, Remington Rand began installing its automated storage and retrieval system‐the Randtriever—at Erasmus University, Rotterdam. The original system never worked properly and uptime was limited to a few hours a day. Erasmus University has subsequently rebuilt the system, installing safety devices, replacing communications systems, and converting the system to computer control (initially using National Semiconductor SC/MP microprocessors and Apple II computers). Today the system is operational 99.9% of the time and is linked directly to the circulation system of the library. It is currently being directly interfaced to the online public access catalog.
Automated storage and retrieval (AS/R) Systems of the past: Why did they fail?
Authors: Kountz John
Published: February 2008

Since their public debuts in the 1960s, thousands of automated storage and retrieval (AS/R) systems have been installed in industrial settings across the United States and Western Europe. These units provide secure, controlled storage and rapid retrieval for inventories that range from computer components to major sub‐assemblies for fighter aircraft. However, until the current installation of an AS/R at California State University, Northridge, only four previous installations were made in the United States and one in Europe. All these earlier systems experienced serious problems, resulting in their removal at three libraries in the U.S., with the remaining U.S. site currently planning to remove its system. These failures have conditioned librarians to avoid such systems, despite significant differences in contemporary technology. Kountz describes the early systems and analyzes what went wrong with them, and why.
Data communications and osi
Authors: Denenberg Ray
Published: February 2008

The upper three OSI layers support the communication requirements of applications, while the lower four layers provide reliable transmission of data. This article describes the lower four layers. First, though, a brief overview of the layered model is presented including a summary of the upper three layers. Then a description of the lower three layers is followed by a discussion of data communication standards associated with specific layers. Architectural concepts are then explored: hierarchy and abstraction within the layers, levels of dialogue, internetworking, end‐to‐end communication, analysis of layer four, and a discussion of connection‐oriented, connectionless, and message‐oriented protocols and applications. The article concludes with a comparison of OSI and the de facto industry protocols, TCP/IP, which are currently used within the Internet.
OSI upper layers support for applications
Authors: Davison Wayne
Published: February 2008

The upper three OSI layers support communication requirements of applications. To communicate meaningfully, applications must share a common understanding of various aspects. This is achieved through the use of several OSI‐related concepts described in this article, including application association, application context, and abstract syntax. The Application layer is concerned with semantics and not encoding. The presentation protocol is concerned with the coupling of semantics with a particular encoding. The session protocol provides for organized and synchronized data exchange. Several application protocols are described in this article, and a sidebar about the File Transfer, Access, and Management protocol is included.
The ISO EDI conceptual model activity and its relationship to OSI
Authors: Fincher Judith A.
Published: February 2008

The developing ISO edi conceptual model and its relationship to OSI are described. The term “edi” (lowercase) contrasts with the familiar EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) and its connotation to syntax‐specific standards, such as X12 and EDIFACT. The edi model will define common structures, services, and processes that X12 and EDIFACT could adopt. OSI is of interest to edi because of its potential services to help enable “open edi”—global interoperability, across EDI functional groups. A sidebar describes the CCITT standard X.edi and its use of OSI services.
The Windows 3.0 environment
Authors: Dennis Don , Paster Mark
Published: February 2008

In the DOS world, Windows 3.0 is an operating environment that utilizes a Graphical User Interface, or “GUI.” A GUI is an alternative to typing as a means of interacting with the computer and its operating system that is intended to be superior, in some ways, to the operating system itself. It is not a replacement for the operating system (e.g., DOS 3.31 or DOS 5.0). The principal features and strengths of Windows 3.0 are examined, as is a suite of programs—Word for Windows, Excel for Windows, and PowerPoint for Windows—which are collectively packaged as Microsoft Office for Windows. While not “perfect,” there is a significant advantage to the uniformity of the Windows environment.
Human‐computer interfaces and OPACS: Introductory thoughts related to INNOPAC
Authors: Henry Helen K.
Published: February 2008

Research in the area of human‐computer interfaces offers guidance for enhancing online catalogs to satisfy patrons' information needs in a “user‐friendly” environment. This article briefly describes human‐computer interfaces and the fundamentals of good human‐computer communication. These concepts are then used as the criteria for evaluating the benefits and shortcomings of San Diego State University Library's INNOPAC, the PAC. In the final analysis, the PAC is not perfect—no system is. It has, however, made strides to overcome some of the failings of second‐generation online public access catalogs.
The latest and greatest: Upgrade or replace?
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

How can you call yourself a serious computer user if you don't have a 33MHz 486 system with a 16″ 1024×768 Super VGA screen and 300MB disk drive? Run right out and get the new goodies—otherwise, you're wasting your precious time. The above is an extreme position. On the other hand, if you're still using the equivalent of an IBM PC/XT (or, worse yet, an original PC), you're at the other extreme. Quite apart from the hype, you would almost certainly benefit from a more powerful PC. For most of us in the real world who are spending real dollars for equipment to serve real needs, the decisions can be tough: upgrade, replace, or let it be? And, if upgrading is the answer, what should you upgrade? This column deals with hardware questions. While there are few firm rules, there are some reasonable guidelines to consider. The author also provides notes from January‐June 1991 PC literature; it's been a great period for powermongers!
Setting up general purpose CD‐ROM Workstations
Authors: Bolin Robert L.
Published: February 2008

Libraries need to provide general purpose CD‐ROM workstations to make the large numbers of publications distributed on CD‐ROM disks available to the public. Setting up and maintaining those workstations can be greatly simplified by standardizing the hardware and software used on all workstation PCs; by organizing software on the hard disk using subdirectories; and by using utility programs, DOS batch files, and a shell program. Organization of the search software for the numerous Bureau of the Census CD‐ROM disks is used as an example. The article is intended for users of IBM‐compatible PCs. While the general principles should be readily understandable to anyone, a knowledge of DOS is required for a thorough understanding of the article. The shell program PreCursor and the hypertext program PC‐Browse are discussed.
Clay tablets to micro chips: The evolution of archival practice into the twenty‐first century
Authors: Hannestad Stephen E.
Published: February 2008

In the future, library applications related to traditional functions may increasingly assume some of the roles and characteristics of archives and museums. In this article, the author describes fundamental archival concepts and theories and their evolution in recent times. Basic archival functions—appraisal, arrangement, description, reference, preservation, and publication—are also introduced. Finally, early applications of automation to archives (including SPINDEX, NARS‐5, NARS‐A‐1, MARC AMC, presNET, CTRACK, PHOTO, and DIARY) and automation trends for the future are discussed. The article presents a cogent introduction to archival operations, thereby providing 1) a basis for understanding distinctions between current archival and library practices and 2) insight concerning the possible convergence of selected roles and functions.
Knowledge systems: An introduction
Authors: Hayes‐Roth Frederick
Published: February 2008

Because much human knowledge consists of elementary fragments of know‐how, applying a significant amount of knowledge requires new ways to organize decision‐making fragments into competent wholes. Knowledge systems collect these fragments in a knowledge base and then access the knowledge base to reason about each specific problem. As a consequence, knowledge systems differ from conventional programs in the way they're organized, the way they incorporate knowledge, the way they execute, and the impression they create through their interactions. Knowledge systems simulate expert human performance, and they present a humanlike facade to the user.
Using computer‐based library reference guides: A comparison of hypertext programs with expert systems
Authors: Morrissey Frances
Published: February 2008

Hypertext library reference guides have many features in common with expert systems, with the notable exception of an inherent capability for learning. However, since the features of an expert system that are actually drawn upon are at the discretion of those implementing the project, a hypertext program may be more sophisticated than one based on an expert shell. This was the case in the library reference guides implemented in the Monash University Library.
Analyzing unstructured information: Can computers help?
Authors: Richards Lyn , Richards Tom
Published: February 2008

The analysis of unstructured information, particularly in the form of text, has long been a technique in the armory of social scientists, who have to deal with conversational records, historical documents, unstructured interviews, and the like. Unsurprisingly, a considerable amount of methodological literature has developed on the subject. The methods of “qualitative data analysis” have now spread to areas of information analysis as diverse as market research and legal evidence analysis. Related computer techniques, from database management systems and word‐processors to specialized qualitative data analysis software, have been pressed into use. This article discusses the information processing methodology and theory assumed by computer‐based qualitative data analysis software; and, in particular, describes and analyzes the methodology of the NUDIST system developed by the authors.
Expert systems teaching: The needs of information professionals
Authors: Morris Anne
Published: February 2008

The LIS profession is beginning to place expert systems in perspective. Expert systems are no longer heralded as being the only necessary tool but rather one tool among an array of several. LIS educators are realistic, both about expert systems technology and about what can be achieved within the limitations of an LIS course. New technologies for refining and controlling information are constantly emerging; LIS schools have to keep up‐to‐date with them as they emerge, but they must also ensure that they do not overprioritize one particular development at the expense of others. They can, at best, only hope to give a taste of the possibilities and potential in different areas. Expert systems are still new enough to warrant special treatment but no doubt they will be ousted by newer technologies in the course of time. Meanwhile, LIS professionals should make the most of what is currently available. Hopefully it should pay dividends in the future.
Reality check: Personal quiz on personal computing
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

Arriving at the end of a three‐year “semester,” it's exam time at the trailing edge. Didn't the author mention that there would be a test? Sixty‐six “true or false” statements test your knowledge and understanding of the personal computer field at the beginning of 1992, and the extent to which your view of personal computing is congruent with the author's. The latter is significant because, if most of you see things entirely different, then Library Hi Tech is wasting its paper printing this column and the author is wasting his time writing it. Some of the material on this quiz comes from the last eleven Trailing Edge columns. Some does not. The quiz, and the commentary accompanying answers, are the author's way of summing up three years of personal computing before moving on to another cycle. The author also provides notes from PC literature received during October‐December 1991. It's “printer quarter,” otherwise covering a wide range of topics. As usual, all the year‐end “awards” and predictions are ignored.
Scholarly communications: New realities, old values
Authors: Kaufman Paula T. , Miller Tamara
Published: February 2008

As modes of scholarly communication change around us, will our old values endure? Deanna Marcum, dean of the School of Library and Information Science at the Catholic University of America, was asked to prepare a keynote essay to which other contributors were invited to both respond and elaborate. All participants reaffirm the importance of equal access to information. Hoekema worries that by diverting resources to keep the system of scholarly publication alive, the financial demands of new electronic services will serve in the end to impoverish many. Holoviak describes a risk that is of particular concern to those involved with scholarly societies, that of disenfranchising scholars not on the basis of their intellectual or economic means but on the basis of technological compatibility. Lyman urges libraries to redefine their mission. He argues that we cannot protect a system that is bankrupting us, and he calls for academic libraries to become the partner of students in learning and of the faculty in the search for knowledge.
Mens et manus at work: The distributed library initiative at MIT
Authors: Anderson Greg
Published: February 2008

Most buildings at MIT are connected, and the long hallway which runs the length of the main complex is called the “infinite corridor.” This design was intentional when the Cambridge campus began construction along the banks of the Charles River basin in 1913. The purpose of interconnecting buildings, in contrast to the separate buildings of many campus quadrangles, is to promote conversation and interchange among students, faculty, and staff. This was viewed especially important for the cross‐fertilization of interdisciplinary studies. What does this have to do with the DLI? It is an early analog of the DLI purpose to nourish and encourage the quality of education and research for the entire MIT community. Within the Athena computing environment students often learn cooperatively. Through services such as Discuss, an online meeting facility, students can ask questions, continue dialogue, probe for new answers, and relax. The DLI provides the information layer of this learning environment and helps to build the electronic infinite corridor.
Transaction log analysis
Authors: Peters Thomas A. , Kurth Martin , Flaherty Patricia , Sandore Beth , Kaske Neal K.
Published: February 2008

For the purposes of library and information science research, transaction log analysis can be narrowly defined as the study of electronically recorded interactions between online information retrieval systems and the persons who search for the information found in those systems.
Transaction logging systems: A descriptive summary
Authors: Flaherty Patricia
Published: February 2008

Most automated library systems include a transaction logging component. Yet this fact may be among the best kept secrets in the automated library arena. Often only a few people within a library are aware of its existence, and even fewer have access to the transaction log data. This is unfortunate, since the concrete data garnered by transaction logs can provide bibliographic instructors, reference staff members, systems librarians, and system designers with unique and valuable insights into the patron/system interaction.
EBSCO: A Ten‐Year Retrospective and View Toward the Future
Authors: Nelson Robert , Kummerer Melissa
Published: February 2008

EBSCO's position in today's library is both the same as ever and vastly different than it was ten years ago. EBSCO has always placed the customer first and remained focused in our goal to provide convenient access to serial information—in whatever format technology allows and the customer desires. In so doing it has developed over 100 interfaces with integrated library systems, automated many of its transactions with customers and publishers, worked on national and international committees developing standards, and created an entire division, EBSCO Publishing, to establish current awareness services through its indexing and abstracting of over 2,300 titles. Additionally, EBSCO Publishing produces or co‐produces over 30 CD‐ROM products. EBSCO Publishing is working closely with a number of integrated library system vendors allowing libraries to purchase tape access to its various databases.
Computer‐Based Training for Library Staff: From Demonstration to Continuing Program
Authors: Bayne Pauline S.
Published: February 2008

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) Libraries' research and demonstration project has achieved its goal of innovative utilization of technology to meet a national library need for efficient and effective staff training materials. The project demonstrated that librarians, who are not computer programmers, can use HyperCard™ as an authoring tool for instructional units. The response of evaluators throughout the development period and subsequent period of regular use, indicates that a machine‐assisted method and the training materials themselves can be enjoyable and successful for library trainees. The implementation plan, developed and used for more than two years at UT, shows that such a program can be instituted on a librarywide basis. Distribution of the computer‐based training units to other libraries means that training materials, which are not available commercially, can be made available to thousands of academic libraries.
The gateway to information: The future of information access…Today
Authors: Tiefel Virginia
Published: February 2008

The proliferation or information, created and sustained with the help of technology, has placed increased pressure on librarians to teach/assist library patrons to use the information efficiently and effectively. With decreasing budgets and resulting smaller staffs, academic libraries have been hard pressed to meet the demand. In response to this need, the Ohio State University (OSU) Libraries has developed a microcomputer program that enables library users to identify, locate, evaluate, and select information independently. With the support of three federal grants and one private grant, the OSU Libraries has designed The Gateway to Information in order to guide users to the best information for their needs, regardless of format. The Gateway's evaluations demonstrate that it is an effective and user‐friendly information tool for a wide range of library patrons. The Gateway is now available on all of the Libraries' terminals.
Applying innovative technology to the needs of the distant learner
Authors: Cutright Patricia J.
Published: February 2008

Academia is changing rapidly; the concept of attaining a college degree now encompasses not only the traditional ideas of attending classes on‐site at campuses but also through state‐of‐the‐art methods that deliver telecourses, now referred to as distance education. Distance education has opened the door of opportunity to a population of potential students who, not so long ago, felt a college degree was an impossible endeavor because of geographic location or personal restrictions. This boon to the students has posed a new set of challenges for libraries in providing academic support for the students engaged in distance learning. The Eastern Oregon Information Network (EOIN) was developed to provide dial‐in, remote access to CD‐ROM indexes, an interlibrary loan module, and an electronic mail system, which bridges the critical gap for the off‐campus student.
Integrating information services in an academic setting: The organizational and technical challenge
Authors: Branin Joseph J. , D'Elia George , Lund Douglas
Published: February 2008

“Integration” in this project focuses on both technical integration and organizational integration to bring a form of coherence and unity to the support and delivery of information services. Immediate success in integration did not happen. After six years, the Integrated Information Center is still evolving. Unexpected progress has been made with the end‐users. The technological issues have progressed very well. However, the organizational issues have been the most difficult to manage.
MSUS/PALS: Building a regional information infrastructure
Authors: Barnett Michael S. , Bruce Rodney C. , Carrison Dale K. , DeMars Jeanne , Flaherty Patricia , Richter Linda L. , Roca Joan , Webb Donna R.
Published: February 2008

The Minnesota State University System's Project for Automated Library Systems (MSUS/PALS) is a fully integrated library system that serves over 150,000 patrons on a network of 53 state university, community college, private college, and state agency libraries throughout Minnesota.
Electronic textbook in human physiology
Authors: Broering Naomi C. , Lilienfield Lawrence S.
Published: February 2008

The Georgetown University Medical Center Library was awarded a U.S. Department of Education grant in collaboration with the Physiology Department of the Medical School to create an “electronic textbook.” The purpose of the project is to enhance learning and visualization by developing a prototype knowledge base of core instructional materials stored in digitized format on Macintosh computers. This self‐instructional program is based on the principle that certain physiological concepts need to be translated by the human brain into dynamic images from the static pictures and words with which they are presented. Computer graphics and the animation designed on the Macintosh allow detailed demonstration of physiologic concepts in color. Today, the project includes chapters on cardiovascular, renal, and endocrine systems. The electronic textbook has been used for two years by the medical students.
Running topview on your PCJR: A lighthearted look at PC projections
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

Predictions can be fun to make, and the temptation must be overwhelming if you're an “expert” in a field as dynamic as personal computing. For that matter, market analysts are paid to make projections. Thus, the PC field doesn't lack for insights into the future. If you base your plans on those predictions and projections rather than your understanding and a touch of caution, you can be led seriously astray. As with most other projections for the marketplace, PC predictions range from superb to awful. Worse yet, some supposedly objective analysts become advocates—coloring their projections with their hopes. To wrap up this year‐long look back at a decade of personal computing, the author notes a few of the failed predictions and assertions that litter the computer press. Hindsight is always easier than foresight, and some of these predictions should have been correct. Meanwhile, it's worth noting a few general areas where projections have gone wrong.
MacNOTIS user interface development and test
Authors: Hall Hal W.
Published: February 2008

The MacNOTIS interface development and test used the Apple Macintosh, HyperCard, and MitemView communications software to develop and test an intuitive interface to NOTIS systems. While the concept and design were viewed favorably by the users, technical and speed issues made the interface too slow for widespread use. MacNOTIS pointed the way to several interface enhancements that should be incorporated in future NOTIS user interfaces.
The many roles of an information technology section
Authors: Lynch Tim
Published: February 2008

The Information Technology Section (ITS) of the Albert R. Mann Library at Cornell University is introduced, focusing on key roles regarding the public services, technical services, and preservation and collection development divisions. Six key roles, or functions, are discussed: 1) maintainer—ITS is responsible for maintenance and support of all computer and network hardware and software; 2) interpreter—the section interprets the information access needs as expressed by patrons and staff to create useful software application programs for their use; 3) trainer—ITS plays a key role in training staff to effectively use those applications; 4) enabler—the section provides staff with the technical background that enables them to translate the challenges to information access they see firsthand into insightful and meaningful suggestions; 5) liaison—ITS exploits its technical expertise to effectively communicate the library's requirements to the campus technical support unit; and 6) advisor—ITS represents the library, both its needs and its offerings, participating in the strategic planning done by academic units for the incorporation of electronic technologies into instruction, research, and extension.
Setting preservation priorities at mann library: A disciplinary approach
Authors: Demas Samuel
Published: February 2008

A systematic, disciplinary approach to setting preservation priorities developed at Mann Library is described. The Core Agricultural Literature project, under the direction of Wallace C. Olsen, has identified the core historical literature in seven disciplines comprising the agricultural sciences. Specific applications and adaptations of the core literature methodology in three other biology and agriculture preservation projects are discussed. Two of the four preservation projects briefly described here have been undertaken as part of a national preservation plan for agricultural sciences literature. The application of digital technology in a national cooperative effort to preserve core historical literature of agriculture represents the culmination of Mann Library's work in developing a disciplinary approach to national preservation planning.
Is there a standard default keyword operator? A bibliometric analysis of processing options chosen by libraries to execute keyword searches in online public access catalogs
Authors: Klein Gary M.
Published: February 2008

Online catalogs from 67 libraries using NOTIS software were searched using Internet connections to determine the positional operators selected as the default keyword operator on each catalog. The diverse results indicated that there is no standard default positional operator.
Libraries, global change data, and information management
Authors: Watts Carol , Burley Cheryl J. , Rand Roberta Y. , Lide David R. , Blixrud Julia , Elswick Stanley , McCone Gary , Kuin Paul M.
Published: February 2008

A primary role of libraries is to organize, manage, and store collections of information and data resources. Librarians and information professionals, serving as facilitators in information seeking, access, and use, are primary gateways to such resources within libraries and information centers. Based on a solid philosophy of and commitment to cooperative information sharing and resource exchange, these professionals have the expertise to locate and access resources from diverse sources.
The future of global change: A challenge to librarians
Authors: Eisenbeis Kathleen M.
Published: February 2008

It is critical that agencies know who their users are and how to evaluate the usefulness of their data and information systems. Accomplishing this task is within the intellectual and practical domain of library and information science. We have done this with other types of information systems in our institutions and we are able to assist and advise in these global change endeavors. To accomplish this task we must first educate scientists that librarians can play a substantive role. Much of the work being done with access to and cataloging of data systems under the guidance of global change science panels and working groups has already been done in the context of libraries and information centers. How are scientists to be convinced that many of their issues have already been addressed for information resources—and are applicable to data? Bridges for understanding and partnerships need to be built and language difficulties need to be overcome. Who will do the translating?
A target of opportunity: Creation of the louis network
Authors: Cargill Jennifer , Cosper Sammie W. , Landon Greaves C. , Hooper Hargrave Carolyn , Hay Ronald D. , Nuckles Nancy , Schneider D.M. , Fatzer Jill
Published: February 2008

Three different governing boards of higher education in Louisiana joined together to create the Louisiana Online University Information System (LOUIS). Key players in this endeavor describe progress from an idea formulated in 1990 to the 1993 reality of an effective statewide online system. Improved services to users and more effective use of collections are examples of what the various libraries throughout Louisiana are expecting to realize from this collective action. Various lessons learned are detailed. Budget components are addressed openly. In 1993, the state of Louisiana was awarded a federal $2.48 million grant that enabled the completion of this statewide infrastructure. Other states contemplating a statewide library network may want to look closely at the planning for and implementation of LOUIS.
Technology for the deaf: Remembering to accommodate an invisible disability
Authors: Gilbert Beck Susan
Published: February 2008

Beck discusses the need to improve library and information services for the deaf community. The technological support available to libraries to serve the deaf is identified and described. Turnkey systems are found to be lacking in applications devoted to those who cannot hear or who are hard of hearing. Other technologies, like captioned videos, TDDs, and assistive listening systems, are examined for levels of service and excellence as well as cost. Examples of technology in transition and for the future are offered, along with experiments on speech and sound. These include inner ear implants, the “data glove” experiments, and tactile translators. Technological conflicts that may arise due to one person having multiple disabilities are presented with a discussion on the prevention of dangerous or difficult situations. Possible difficulties and ways to handle opposing technologies are examined briefly. Appropriate sections of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Guidelines are grouped with the technologies that aid compliance. Additional laws are mentioned where their inclusion is appropriate. Suggested guidelines for serving the deaf/disabled community are offered for librarians working in all library types.
Trends in world wide web development: May 1995
Authors: Weibel Stuart
Published: February 2008

The World Wide Web, an Internet‐based hypertext system, swept onto the Internet scene about 18 months ago as a result of the widespread popularity of Mosaic, the universal client software developed at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) at the University of Illinois. Mosaic provided an easy‐to‐use interface that struck a responsive chord in Internet users hungry for content and tired of the arcane syntax of command‐line Internet services.
The trailing edge ♯23 the cheap and the read: Low‐priced software options and an update on PC media
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

While bargains abound in the personal computing field, they must be evaluated considering your needs—and it is sometimes hard to distinguish between inexpensive and merely cheap alternatives. The author discusses low‐priced software alternatives, noting how to look for bargains and a few specific examples. The PC‐related media scene continues to change, as does the slice of it reviewed for “Notes on the Media.” In the second portion of this article, the author offers some typically opinionated notes on some current publications. The author concludes with the usual roundup of comparative reviews and other notes on the PC literature for January‐March 1995. It was a big quarter for printer reviews, with few desktop computer comparisons—and life's about to get more interesting for those who prefer the Macintosh operating system: the clones are coming!
TULIP AT Elsevier Science
Authors: Mostert Paul
Published: February 2008

This article elaborates on the technical aspects of the TULIP project as it is developed and implemented at Elsevier Science to produce journal material in electronic formats and deliver this material to the collaborating universities. Other articles in this issue describe the different systems at those universities.
TULIP at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Authors: Cattey Bill , Anderson Greg
Published: February 2008

MIT's work with TULIP began with Karen Hunter's call for participation at the fall 1992 CNI (Coalition for Networked Information) meeting. The opportunity to participate in TULIP fit well with MIT's activities in the areas of electronic library information delivery, large‐scale information systems (IS), distributed computing, and collaboration with key partners within MIT, higher education, and commercial information providers.