She questioned whether GPO cataloging standards will meet those needs and expectations. Advocates for keeping NTIS at the U.S. Department of Commerce also spoke. Bonnie C. Carroll, a long-time consultant on many government information issues, emphasized the serious changes that will take place in technology in the next couple of years and the need to work toward a vision on these issues. A Software and Information Industry Association representative spoke but had not yet submitted written comments. In general, the comments from the participants supported keeping NTIS at Commerce.
Meeting minutes are also available.
There is no clear indication of intentions or timeline from Congress on the NTIS debate. There is some urgency, however. NTIS is losing experienced staff. The Congressional appropriations process soon will need to decide whether to provide funding to close NTIS or to keep NTIS operating as is for an interim period. The ALA Office of Government Relations will make further reports as more becomes available.