Library Technology Guides

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Volume 14 Number 09 (September 1994)

Prototype electronic document system for ISI

The Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) and International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation have announced a joint study to develop a prototype electronic document storage management and distribution system for ISI.

The objective of this project is to allow publishers and users of scholarly information to test the many variables relating to the electronic distribution of information. Initially, the prototype will provide users with desktop access from their own local-area-network (LAN) environments to the bibliographic data, abstracts, table of contents, full text, and full images of the 1,350 scientific journals contained in the Life Sciences edition of ISI's Current Contents. This collaborative project will also serve to evaluate new technologies for use in future digital library systems.

Using IBM's client/server solution, ISI's subscribers would have direct local access to customized selections of information. Network connections between local “library servers” and ISI's “enterprise server” would permit subscribers to easily order copies of information not contained in their local collections and enable ISI to deliver updates to local collections and provide for account control and customer usage information.

Other key areas that will be explored in the project include:

• Practical applications of the electronic journals (data access, retrieval, and usage) from the perspectives of publishers and users, including issues related to copyright and intellectual property rights.
• Systems required to facilitate use of the electronic libraries, including billing, accounting, and business management reporting.
• Pricing scenarios to determine how to meet the diverse needs of both the publishing and user communities.
• Usage patterns to determine if, and how, the electronic journal will change traditional information purchasing and usage.

IBM's client/server design will provide ISI with the means to manage a very large database and allow its customers to view the information on personal computers that run on the most popular operating systems (such as OS/2, DOS/Windows, Macintosh, and UNIX) and are connected by commercially available LAN software (such as Lan Server, Novell, Appletalk, and TCP/IP). IBM's solution is based on many technologies pioneered at its Almaden Research Center (ARC), the birthplace of the relational database, in San Jose, California. The design incorporates products of IBM's PC Server organization (servers), Storage Systems Division (magnetic and optical disk drives and libraries and data storage management software) and Software Solutions Division (the DB2 relational database family). New technologies from ARC include those that provide advanced database functions, integrate text and image applications, and address copyright security issues.

[Contact: Institute for Scientific Information, 3501 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3389, Attn: Jacqueline H. Trolley, Corporation Communications; (215) 386-0100, ext. 1449; Fax (215) 387-1225; or IBM Almaden Research Center, 650 Harry Road, San Jose, CA 95120-6099, Attn: Michael Ross, Communications & Community Relations; (408) 927-1283; Fax (408) 927-3011.]

DRA libraries implement Z39.50 servers on the Internet

A number of libraries with Data Research Associates' automated library systems are not only on the Internet, but have implemented Z39.50 server capability so they can be searched by any Z39.50 client. This makes it possible to search the DRA systems using the command language of the system from which the access is sought.

The libraries thus far online with z39.50 and their server addresses are as follows:

Library	Internet Address
North Carolina State University	marion@nsculib.lib.ncsu.edu
Duke University	marion@ducatabog.bib.duke.edu
University of NC-Greensboro	jaclin-database@library.uncgedu
University of NC-Chapel Hill	marion@unclib.lib.unc.edu
Middlebury College	midcat@myriad.Middlebury.edu
Butler University	marion@ruth.butler.edu
Cleveland Public library	cpl@clevxg.cpl.org
Grambling State University	marion@ gopac.gram. edu
University Center at Tulsa	uctpac@bib.uct.edu

[Contact: Data Research Associates, Inc., 1276 North Warson Road, P.O. Box 8495, St. Louis, MO 63132-1806; (314) 432-1100 or (800) 325-0888; Fax (314) 993-8927.]

Carl corporation acquires Novel approach

CARL Corporation has announced the acquisition of a new electronic readers' advisory product developed by Smith, Strickler and Rohweder. “Novel Approach” aims to assist adult fiction readers to locate authors and titles that are likely to be of interest to them. The system asks the reader to enter information about books he or she has enjoyed reading as well as descriptions of the type of books she or he would like to read. This information is then used to create electronic lists of “books you might like.”

“Novel Approach” will be marketed as both a standalone product and as a component of CARL Corporation's “Everybody's Catalog.” The system provides enhanced subject access to approximately 29,000 adult fiction titles; in addition, roughly 2,600 full text book reviews have been added to the “Novel Approach” database.

Plans to expand “Novel Approach” include the continued addition of new authors, titles, and full-text reviews, as well as the addition of new data sources. Also planned is a feature which will allow libraries to add locally popular authors and titles. Expansions to the “Novel Approach” product line will include versions for young adults and children, and for non book formats such as video.

[Contact: CARL Corporation, 3801 E. Florida Avenue, Bldg. D, Suite 300, Denver, CO 80210; (303) 758-3030; Fax (303) 758-0606.]

Harriet Traeger's good reads released

Retro Link Associates (RLA), a division of Ameritech Library Services, in participation with the County of Los Angeles Public Library, has announced an agreement for licensing and marketing Good Reads as a PC-based software product that facilitates improved access to fiction collections via an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) and a sophisticated search engine. Containing annotated entries to over 10,000 titles, the fiction database can be accessed by genre, locale, time period, subject, or by a combination of these terms.

The Good Reads database is an online reader's advisory service which had its humble beginnings 29 years ago in a file drawer at Harriet Traeger' s home. As a reference librarian and fiction evaluator for the County of Los Angeles Public Library, it had long been Traeger's responsibility—and passion—to read and evaluate fiction titles. By the time this unique and highly personal finding tool was entered into an online database by the County Library, her single file drawer had grown to comprise six drawers of notes and included title, author, subject, genre, locale, time period, and other descriptive information.

The diskette product requires a 386 or higher PC with at least 4MB of memory and a VGA 640 x 480 color graphics adapter for good performance. A mouse is highly recommended.

The price is $395 per year, including quarterly updates. Network pricing also is available. A free Good Reads demo disk is available.

[Contact: Retro Link Associates, 175 Nort Freedom Blvd., Provo, UT 84601; (800) 765-6508; Fax (801) 344-6244.]

New release of VTLS software includes four new subsystems

VTLS, Inc., has released the latest version of the VTLS integrated library automation software, which includes 25 new or enhanced features and four new subsystems: cataloging client, EasyPAC, Inventory Control, and Materials Booking.

The VTLS Cataloging Client is a microcomputer-based, full-screen MARC record editor for copying, creating, and editing bibliographic and authority records.

In addition to allowing users to perform all VTLS functions, the Client lets users access records in the VTLS database, download and edit them, and then transfer them back to the database by pressing a function key. The Client provides record-entry templates with field labels for each tag. Libraries can modify the templates without programmer intervention. There are context-sensitive help screens.

The VTLS EasyPAC is a Windows-based client interface with VTLS online catalog. As a graphical user interface, Easy-PAC offers point-and-click functionality for easy access to bibliographic, item, holdings, and status information in a library collection. The EasyPAC uses a building-block design which permits experienced users to execute all VTLS functions in the command mode. EasyPAC also offers libraries the flexibility to customize screen prompts and context-sensitive help screens as well as bibliographic screens.

Another new subsystem, Inventory Control, lets a library determine the exact status of each barcoded item in a certain section of shelving within one library location. Obviously, it still requires that a person with a portable barcode scanner go to the stacks and scan each item sequentially. But once the information has been input, the system does all the checking in the various files electronically. It reports on items found on the shelf that the library had reported missing. It also reports on items that the library believes it holds but are missing and unaccounted for. Inventory Control can be used to track any library item in the VTLS system except those items in Materials Booking or on reserve.

The VTLS Materials Booking module, which is fully integrated into the VTLS Circulation subsystem, handles online reservations and booking of media materials. It lets patrons use the OPAC to search for a particular item such as video equipment and then to book the item for a specific date and time. Many aspects of the subsystem can be set by the library to suit its needs. Once a materials booking item is checked out, it is handled as a standard circulating item.

The EasyPAC and Cataloging Client a sold as individual licenses or as site licenses. Inventory Control and Material Booking are optional software subsystems for the VTLS system.

[Contact: VTLS, Inc., 1800 Kraft Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060; (703) 231-3605; Fax (703) 231-3648.]

College catalogs on CD-ROM

A little over 20 years ago, the job of collecting and maintaining U.S. college catalogs was made easier when a microfiche edition of thousands of college catalogs was introduced. There now is a CD-ROM product—College Source—a CD-ROM of 3,600 college catalogs.

There are several search options: institution name, state, major, degrees, tuition, enrollment size, and affiliation.

The price for the national edition is $798, and four regional editions are price at $348 each. There are standing order discounts.

The product requires a 386-based PC with at least 4MB of RAM. A mouse is recoin mended. Both DOS 3.3 and Microsoft Windows 3.1 are supported.

[Contact: Career Guidance Foundation, 8090 Engineer Road, San Diego, CA 92111; (800) 854-2670; Fax (619) 278-8960.]

MITINET/marc 4.0 released

Information Transform has released MITINET/marc Version 4.0 for the IBM PC and compatibles. MITINET/marc is a multi-functional MARC-based library program designed for all types and sizes of librar ies. With MITINET/marc, users can create original MARC records and handle on-going MARC maintenance for their online catalogs and circulation systems.

The interactive program differs from other MARC-based programs because it create MARC records without requiring users to learn anything about MARC. It automatically generates MARC field tags, subfield codes, indicators, ISBD punctuation, GMD values, and control field codes (leader, 007, and 008 information) while the user enters text. All prompts are provided in plain English, and include on-screen examples for each piece of information. Every screen includes online help information.

Version 4.0 has several new features to help users save time and become more efficient, including a full-screen cataloging editor, one keystroke commands, user-created templates to streamline data entry, online help screens, and printing of spine and pocket labels. MITINET/marc handles the complete USMARC character set supporting all Roman alphabet languages, including new characters added to USMARC in 1994. The new curriculum—enhanced MARC standard is fully supported.

MARC records can be created for all types of library material including books, maps, reports, sound recordings, visual materials, and more. The records can be exported to more than 65 library automation systems that have MARC import capability. Full import and export of MicroLIF records is also included, with automatic updating of missing control fields. ISBD punctuation, and GMD information. Export in ASCII file format is also available.

Version 4.0 comes with completely updated documentation. The MITINET/marc manual provides users with complete program information. A set of tutorials helps users get started cataloging after just a couple hours. All cataloging tasks are described step-by-step in the User's Guide section. The Cataloger's Reference ssction provides information about cataloging, complete with examples.

The cost of MITINET/marc is $399 and includes 6 months of free customer support and software upgrades. A free demonstration disk is available. It includes all of the features of the full production system and can be used to evaluate the new MITINET/marc Version 4.0.

[Contact: Information Transform, Inc., 502 Leonard Street, Madison, WI 53711; TAG-MARC or (608) 255-4800; Fax (608) 255-2082.]

Utah State Library division contracts with Vista

The Utah State Library Division is the first state library to contract with Vista for electronic database services through the Internet. The Utah Public Library Network Initiative approved funding to open Internet service for 20 Utah public libraries in 1994, with plans to expand to 70 libraries. The Internet connection will allow access not only to Vista's database services, but also to electronic mail, Telnet, Mosaic, Gopher, and FTP.

Vista works seamlessly with Dynix local library system software, but may also be accessed from a PC. Linked through a remote connection to the Ameritech Information Services center in Provo, Utah, Vista presently offers over 25 databases to libraries and home users via the Internet.

[Contact: Ameritech Library Services, 400 Dynix Drive, Provo, UT 84604; (801) 223-5200 or (800) 288-8020; Fax (801) 223-5202.]

WWW, Hypertext, and the Web

We have recently been asked to explain the World Wide Web (WWW), a new phenomenon in Internet usage. We are happy to try. While the Internet is composed of thousands of smaller regional networks scattered throughout the globe (on any given date it connects roughly 18 million users in over 60 countries), WWW refers to a group of 100 or so servers on the Internet and also to a body of information—an abstract space of knowledge.

WWW, or the Web, has been described as a wide-area hypermedia information retrieval initiative aiming to give universal access to a very large universe of documents. The operation of the Web relies on hypertext as its means of interacting with commercial users. Hypertext is basically the same as regular text—it can be stored, read, searched, or edited—but with an important addition: hypertext contains connections within the text to other documents.

For instance, suppose one were to select the word “hypertext” in the preceding sentence. In a hypertext system, one would then retrieve one or more documents related to “hypertext”, such as a history of hypertext or the Webster's definition of hypertext. These new texts would themselves have links and connections to other documents. Continually selecting new texts would take one on a free-associative and unpredictable tour of information. In this way, hypertext links, called “hyperlinks”, can create a complex virtual web of connections.

Hypermedia is hypertext with one difference—hypermedia documents contain links not only to other pieces of text, but also to other forms of media—sounds, images, etc. Images, for example, can be selected to link to sound or text documents and vice versa.

Today, there are over 100 hypertext WWW servers in use throughout the world. The number is growing at the rate of more than 20 per month.

Used RS/6000 hardware now widely available

IBM RS/6000 hardware, the most popular hardware in library automation the past three years, is now widely available in the resale market. The 520 CPU is generally priced below $4,000, the 530 at below $7,000, and the 550 at below $18,000. The 300 series machines range in price from $2,500 to $10,000. Disk drives of 2.0GB are generally $2,900 or less and cartridge tape drives of 2.3GB are $2,750 or less.

Libraries considering the purchase of used equipment must keep in mind that automated library system vendors usually will not handle maintenance for equipment not purchased from them and should insist that the seller certify that it is eligible for IBM maintenance.

IBM issues AIX 4.1

IBM has introduced a new version of its 32 bit UNIX operating system. The announcement is important to libraries because AIX 3.2.5 is used on most of the IBM RS/6000 machines used for library automation.

Not all vendors of automated library systems will choose to change to the new operating system release. While the cost of upgrading from a current 3.2.5 license ranges from $200 to $9,500, depending on system size and number of licensed users, library system vendors may pass on discount or add on surcharges. Libraries should check with their vendors to obtain details.

Disk storage for journal citation files

Libraries frequently ask us how much disk storage to plan for various popular journal citation files. The answer depends on the number of years, but we recommend the following for three years of coverage:

Academic Abstracts (Ebsco)	1.0GB
Readers Guide with Abstracts (Wilson)	600MB
Magazine Index Plus (IAC)	900MB
Periodical Abstracts (UMI)	1.0GB

Dynix automation center contracted for Chicago Library System

The Chicago Library System (CLS) has contracted with Ameritech Library Services for membership in a full-service Dynix Automation Center. CLS already delivers computer services to approximately 600 members, primarily special and corporate libraries, in the greater Chicago area. It is based at the Harold Washington Library Center, the flagship of the Chicago Public Library.

The Dynix Automation Center provides all 600 CLS member libraries with the opportunity to automate without investing in on-site system hardware or administration. The libraries of law firm Lord, Bissell & Brook and The Northern Baptist Seminary have been the first independent members to join. CLS plans to launch a marketing effort to encourage other CLS libraries to participate in the Center as independent members.

According to contract provisions, Dynix provides and is responsible for all central site hardware, software, and telecommunications equipment. Hardware procurement, installation, and maintenance is accomplished by Dynix, including all hardware upgrades. Telecommunications equipment to connect libraries to the Automation Center is also provided and maintained, along with optional peripheral equipment. (Ameritech, the parent company, is the local telephone company for Chicago.)

[Contact: Dynix, Inc., 400 Dynix Drive, Provo, UT 84604; (801) 223-5200 or (800) 288-8020; Fax (801) 223-5202.]

Farley on Geac

Earlier this year Charles Farley, General Manager of Geac Computers, Inc., of the U.S., began a series of letters to directors of libraries with CLSI or Geac automated library systems. The letters are candid and informative. We would like to share the substance of his comments with our readers.

In May, Farley issued the clearest statement we've seen that Geac intends to support and continue to develop both the LIBS 100plus (PLUS) and ADVANCE systems indefinitely. PLUS will be aimed primarily at public libraries and ADVANCE at academic libraries.

During 1993, 29 PLUS and 33 ADVANCE systems were sold, which brought the total number of installations to 67 and 73, respectively. Thirty-five of the sales were upgrade sales to existing customers.

The most recent release of PLUS is 2.0, and 2.5 due for release late in 1994. The new PLUS serials control and media booking modules are to be released in 1995. ADVANCE Release 5 was recently distributed and Release 6 is in Beta testing. The ADVANCE interlibrary loan module is to be released in 1995. Over $2 million was invested in product development during the past year.

Farley has discussed numerous other issues in his first three letters, and is committed to sending monthly updates to customers reporting on the vendor's activities. We hope to pass on worthwhile information from these communiqués from time to time.

IME moves to larger quarters in the U.S.

IME Systems has moved to 900 Washington Street, #203, Dedham, Massachusetts 02026, just down the street from its former address. The telephone number (617-320-0303) and the fax number (617-320-0793) remain the same.

Wireless LANs gain in popularity

According to a recently released study by BRG (Business Research Group) of Newton, Massachusetts, wireless LAN technology is now quite common, especially in new facilities where construction can be planned to accommodate it. Costs are now comparable to wired LAN5, and installation and reconfiguration to meet changing needs are quicker. The major complaint from users, however, is the difficulty of interfacing wireless LANs with other LANs and WANs.

According to the same study, four companies currently account for 67 percent of the wireless LAN installations. ATT GIS leads the market with a 28 percent share; Motorola is second with 22 percent; Microwave Bypass is third with 10 percent; and InfraLAN fourth with 7 percent. No other vendor has more than a 5 percent market share.

LTR publishes second part of vendor study

The second part of a two-part report by William Saffady on vendors of integrated library systems is now available in Library Technology Reports (Volume 30, Number 2, March/April 1994). The report deals exclusively with integrated library systems for minicomputers and mainframes. Such systems may be sold as software packages for customer-supplied computers or as turnkey configurations of hardware and software. Vendor reports on microcomputer-based integrated systems have been covered in previous issues of LTR (most recently, in the March/April and May/June 1993 issues).

The first part, published in the January/February 1994 issue, contained a state-of-the-art survey that explained integrated system concepts, reviewed the history of integrated systems, and described the characteristics and capabilities of available products and was followed by detailed reports on the products and services of eight vendors: Data Research Associates, Dynix, Gaylord Information Systems, Innovative Interfaces, Inc., NOTIS, Sirsi Corporation, Sobeco Ernst & Young, and VTLS.

The second part continues with reports on 14 additional vendors: Best-Seller Library Systems, CARL Corporation, CoBIT, Comstow Information Services, ELiAS, N.V., Ex Libris Ltd., Gateway Software Corporation, Geac Computer Corporation, IME Systems, Information Dimensions Incorporated, International Library Systems, MARCorp, NSC Incorporated, and SLS (Information Systems) Ltd. As with Part I, each vendor report includes a competitive analysis that highlights the most important characteristics of each vendor's offerings and assesses that vendor's market position.

Individual issues of Library Technology Reports are available for $45.

[Contact: Library Technology Reports, ALA Headquarters, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago IL 60611; Fax (312) 440-9374.]

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