Factors to consider in choosing a microcomputer for library housekeeping and information retrieval in a small library: experience in the Cairns Library

From a project to develop a microcomputer facility for small libraries, some criteria which may be used in the selection of a microcomputer and applications software for library housekeeping and information retrieval have been drawn. A method of system analysis to identify essential features of the automated system is described, and additional criteria for choosing both hardware and software are suggested. Sources of information about suitable software and hardware are given.