OPACs in Australia: a progress report

This article reviews the extent to which OPACs have been installed or planned in Australia. The information was collected by requests for information and telephone interviews. The review indicates widespread acceptance of OPACs across most types of library in Australia. Eighteen systems are identified, showing marked penetration by vendors and some inhouse developments. Retrospective conversion is in an advanced state and reasons for this are given. OPACs are also being accessed from outside the library. Australian libraries have wholeheartedly accepted OPAC technology.