Network '95: choosing a third generation automated information system for Suffolk Libraries & Heritage

This paper examines why Suffolk County Council Libraries & Heritage decided in 1993 to move to a third generation automated information system in 1995. It reviews the factors which influenced the purchase of the system and it describes in some detail the process of selection. Library users, elected councillors, library and record office staff were present at demonstrations of possible systems and the ways in which their views were collected and analysed are discussed.