Following the initial success of the eLib Programme for Higher Education libraries in the UK, the most recent phase of funding has been directed at hybrid library and clump…
Abstract
Following the initial success of the eLib Programme for Higher Education libraries in the UK, the most recent phase of funding has been directed at hybrid library and clump projects. A clump is an aggregation of catalogues which may be physical ‐ a traditional union catalogue ‐ or virtual, being created at the time of searching. The most common protocol in use in clumps is Z39.50 which offers opportunities for creating gateways to a range of catalogues, thus allowing simultaneous parallel searching. Four clump projects have been approved by eLib and started work in January 1998: CAIRNS ‐ Co‐operative Academic Information Retrieval Network for Scotland; M25 Link: Access to London Libraries; Music Libraries Online (a geographically split subject clump); RIDING: Z39.50 Gateway to Yorkshire Libraries.
Details
Keywords
The British Library Research and Development Department (BLR &DD) has long been interested in the developing technologies in the fields of imaging and multimedia, and in 1988…
Abstract
The British Library Research and Development Department (BLR &DD) has long been interested in the developing technologies in the fields of imaging and multimedia, and in 1988 published An overview of image processing and image management systems and their application. This report reviewed several fields where these technologies were already being used and also highlighted the future trends for the industry and standards. Since then imaging and multi‐media projects with relevance to the library and information world have featured as a priority area in the allocation of the Department's funds. It is therefore not surprising that this year's Anglo‐French seminar (24–26 June), the eighth in a series of annual seminars aimed at bringing researchers together to discuss ongoing work on topics of common interest, had image handling in museums and libraries as its theme.
This paper discusses the reasons for using desktop publishing in libraries before giving brief background details and an explanation of two software packages that operate on the…
Abstract
This paper discusses the reasons for using desktop publishing in libraries before giving brief background details and an explanation of two software packages that operate on the Apple Macintosh. These approach the subject from different directions; MacAuthor is an advanced wordprocessor with a substantial number of desktop publishing features, whereas Pagemaker is a leading page make‐up package. The use of additional hardware is considered in outline. Some examples of present and potential uses of the technology in libraries are given and the paper concludes with a look at the future before giving a number of warnings to be considered before you make your purchase.
Peter Stubley and Darren Umney
Reports on the Multimedia in Libraries Project, begun in October1990, to investigate the specific opportunities that technology offersto libraries and information centres…
Abstract
Reports on the Multimedia in Libraries Project, begun in October 1990, to investigate the specific opportunities that technology offers to libraries and information centres. Discusses the four multimedia modules included in the prototype covering non‐verbal communication, query negotiation, bibliographic search strategies and feedback of information to the enquirer. Concludes that evaluators have appreciated the creative and tongue‐in‐cheek use of multiple media in this important area.
Details
Keywords
In April 1984 the British Library Research and Development Department (BLR&DD) funded a twelve‐month project to investigate the use of facsimile transmission in libraries. Of the…
Abstract
In April 1984 the British Library Research and Development Department (BLR&DD) funded a twelve‐month project to investigate the use of facsimile transmission in libraries. Of the thirteen libraries selected, four comprised the BCOP (Birmingham Libraries in Co‐operation) libraries of Aston University, Birmingham Public Libraries, City of Birmingham Public Libraries, City of Birmingham Polytechnic, and the University of Birmingham. These were chosen to gain experience of fax operation in a local co‐operative. The first months of the project were spent establishing and publicising fax and in staff training, and while take‐up was encouraging it was felt that a year was insufficient to test the service fully. Thus, with agreement from the British Library, the project was extended for a second twelve months. This report covers the experience of BCOP libraries during the second stage of the project, i.e. from May 1985‐end of March 1986. A full report of the complete project is presently in preparation for publication by the British Library, and details of the first year's operation at Aberdeen City Libraries have already been published.
Denis Heathcote and Peter Stubley
Guidelines are suggested for dealing with the impact made on the physical environment of the library by the introduction of information technology. The implications for building…
Abstract
Guidelines are suggested for dealing with the impact made on the physical environment of the library by the introduction of information technology. The implications for building services (power, telecommunications, environment, and security) are considered at length. Further sections address the problems of space layout for staff and students, the design and selection of furniture and equipment, and storage and security.
During the feasibility study into a National Union catalogue for the UK (UKNUC), a questionnaire survey was undertaken of the needs of both academic staff in higher education and…
Abstract
During the feasibility study into a National Union catalogue for the UK (UKNUC), a questionnaire survey was undertaken of the needs of both academic staff in higher education and library staff. A response rate of 40‐50 per cent was achieved, 846 questionnaires being returned for academics and 724 for librarians. The analysis suggests that a UKNUC would be highly valued and heavily used by all categories. Academics felt it would have a positive effect on their information searching, and wished to include the holdings of the British Library, and libraries of both the major research universities and the “traditional” universities. They wanted it to be comprehensive and easy to use, to include locations of both books and journals, and to facilitate subject collection searching. Library staff have similar priorities to academics, although there are more variations by sector and a recognition of a UKNUC’s value as a potential source of bibliographic records.
Details
Keywords
On its stated terms as “a descriptive conspectus” of the 550 titles registered in British Library publications 1988, together with the many newsletters and priced and unpriced…
Abstract
On its stated terms as “a descriptive conspectus” of the 550 titles registered in British Library publications 1988, together with the many newsletters and priced and unpriced ephemeral literature emanating from its multifarious services and agencies, this careful compilation will no doubt fulfil a need for students and teachers of librarianship and information science here and abroad. There is a select bibliography of two pages and a 28‐page index. Proof reading is excellent, just a few slips, e.g. the Dainton Committee was set up in 1967 not 1957, IOLR had c.400,00 books ands serials, not 4 million.
As CD‐ROM becomes more and more a standard reference and technicalsupport tool in all types of libraries, the annual review of thistechnology published in Computers in Libraries…
Abstract
As CD‐ROM becomes more and more a standard reference and technical support tool in all types of libraries, the annual review of this technology published in Computers in Libraries magazine increases in size and scope. This year, author Susan L. Adkins has prepared this exceptionally useful bibliography which she has cross‐referenced with a subject index.
Details
Keywords
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…
Abstract
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.