[324] in Public-Access_Computer_Systems_Forum
Library Automation--Comments & Questions
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Public-Access Computer Systems For)
Fri May 22 10:02:56 1992
Date: Fri, 22 May 1992 09:00:39 CDT
Reply-To: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <PACS-L%UHUPVM1.BITNET@RICEVM1.RICE.EDU>
From: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <LIBPACS%UHUPVM1.BITNET@RICEVM1.RICE.EDU>
To: Multiple recipients of list PACS-L <PACS-L%UHUPVM1.BITNET@RICEVM1.RICE.EDU>
2 Messages, 67 Lines
1) Computer for Small Library
2) CD-ROM LAN Accessibility from OPAC Terminals
*-----
From: "Vickie L. Banks" <21602VB@MSU>
Subject: Computer for Small Library
I'm advising a small reference library specializing in works on
various religions and the humanities about what sort of first
general purpose computer and software to get. They would like
to do cataloging of up to 5000 volumes and perhaps use the computer
for other purposes (CD's, etc. as well). They're looking at
getting Bibliofile and Magic as cataloging systems.
Some specific questions:
1. Is a 386 sufficient, or would a 486 be needed?
2. Is the Bibliofile/Magic combination a good one, or would some other
combination be better for cataloging.
3. What other hardware considerations should they keep in mind (amount
of RAM, size of hard disk, etc.)
4. If the computer were being used for other purposes besides online
card catalog, is a printed out card catalog necessary? Or can
Windows or some kind on multitasking let one switch easily between
searches and other kinds of work (Note: the library is relatively
low use, so brief searches happen only a few times a day.). Are
libraries with computers still using printed out card catalogs if
they have any choice?
5. What collections of CD's are most used by small reference libraries
that want to increase the number of volumes they offer without
using too much space?
6. Any other recommendations for what hardware/software configurations
best meet the needs of small libraries?
Thanks for any assistance or insights you can offer about any of the
above questions.
Vickie L. Banks
21602VB@MSU.EDU
*-----
From: "Tim Kambitsch, Butler University Libraries" <KAMBITSCH@BUTLERU.BITNET>
Subject: Re: CD-ROM LAN accessibility from OPAC terminals
>>Do any libraries provide access to a CD-ROM LAN from their OPAC terminals?
>>Pros? Cons? Do you allow remote access to the CD-ROM LAN?
Susan Heckethorn asked the above questions. Our school is currently speaking
with Virtual MicroSystems about using their Gateway product, similar to the
product offered by Logicraft, whereby a LAN accessible processor would enable
terminals such as DEC VT220 to access a CD-ROM Server. Their approach is
somewhat different in that they use Digital's InforServer 100 or 150 as
a CD-ROM Server.
I am curious if others have investigated this product? Installed it? Like it?
Tim Kambitsch Phone: 317-283-9949
Associate Director for Systems kambitsch@butleru.bitnet
Butler University Libraries "Any sufficiently advanced technology
4600 Sunset Avenue is virtually indistinguishable
Indianapolis IN 46208 from magic." -- A.C. Clarke
