Session Number
02
Description
Developments in serials automation since the first batch-produced catalogues are briefly surveyed. The reason for early failures are identified and it is shown how the elimination of the problems encountered has been possible through inter-library cooperation together with enhancements in computer systems reliability. It is apparent that many university libraries in North America now have successful serials automation systems in operation.
In order to assess the situation in Europe and the rest of the world a questionnaire was sent to all IATUL members in February 1983 and it elicited a 53% response. The results are tabulated to show the range of size of serials collections, nature of catalogue maintained and the extent of automation. Over half of the libraries use computers but the majority of installations are more than four years old. Automated cataloguing is the most common feature reported and relatively few libraries offer on-line facilities to enable readers to make better use of the serials collection. In conclusion an analysis is given of the facilities sought in a more comprehensive system and it is suggested that the generation of microprocessors now coming on the market in the West may well prove suitable within the imposed financial constraints.
A Survey of IATUL for Serials Automation - Future Prospects
Developments in serials automation since the first batch-produced catalogues are briefly surveyed. The reason for early failures are identified and it is shown how the elimination of the problems encountered has been possible through inter-library cooperation together with enhancements in computer systems reliability. It is apparent that many university libraries in North America now have successful serials automation systems in operation.
In order to assess the situation in Europe and the rest of the world a questionnaire was sent to all IATUL members in February 1983 and it elicited a 53% response. The results are tabulated to show the range of size of serials collections, nature of catalogue maintained and the extent of automation. Over half of the libraries use computers but the majority of installations are more than four years old. Automated cataloguing is the most common feature reported and relatively few libraries offer on-line facilities to enable readers to make better use of the serials collection. In conclusion an analysis is given of the facilities sought in a more comprehensive system and it is suggested that the generation of microprocessors now coming on the market in the West may well prove suitable within the imposed financial constraints.