UNIX software tools and library automation

Software tools are programs which perform simple functions and have simple interfaces. They can be easily put together to make complete systems; and their use for library automation represents a middle path between ‘off the shelf’ packaged software and software which is entirely coded in a programming language. After discussing software tools in connection with the UNIX operating system, this paper describes an experimental system for periodicals control. An analysis of the software is presented which indicates the benefits that stem from using software tools, and some figures on machine timing are given.