BIBLIOGRAPHIC UTILITIES AND THE USE OF MICROCOMPUTERS IN LIBRARIES: CURRENT AND PROJECTED PRACTICES.

Bibliographic utilities are marketing specially designed hardware and software that permit libraries to patch together automated cataloging acquisitions serials control, reference, online public catalogs, circulation, interlibrary loan, and administrative functions. These configurations are increasingly more complex, relying on the microcomputer as both a data storage unit and a programmable multi-use terminal. To facilitate the use of this new technology by librarians with little microcomputer experience, the utilities also offer support and training. The promotion of microcomputer use in libraries by utilities is leading to a freedom of choice for the librarian. Yet because of the complexity of the new technology, the choices have become harder to make, and the systems harder to learn and maintain.