This collection of ideas for library computer projects is based on the results of a mail survey of microcomputer use in libraries conducted in the 1990s. Some 3,500 questionnaires were sent out across the USA to individuals on various ALA mailing lists, selected from interesting Web sites, or who were members of the Suburban Library System in Illinois. The projects selected for the book represent a wide cross‐section of the way microcomputers are used in libraries, ranging from public and academic libraries to school, special libraries and library associations.
The 101 project ideas are organized into 15 sections, including: administration, budgeting, accounting, and record keeping; indexing and bibliography generation; children, young adults, and reading club projects; circulation systems and online catalogues; computer centres and laboratories; desktop publishing and graphics; interlibrary loan; Internet; local area networks, intranets, and cooperatives; periodicals; public access and student and patron training; public relations; reference services, etc. Each project has a library “catalogue‐style” entry which lists the project name, the library, the contact person with address, phone and fax numbers, e‐mail address, hardware and the software used, project length, estimated cost, and the Web or print reference when available. In addition each entry has a brief description of what to do in the project.
The projects involve various degrees of technological complexity. Readers will find high‐profile projects alongside more basic ideas. Some examples are computer laboratories and access service models, copyright compliance files, health information network, in‐house song index, multilingual approach to computer literacy, patron training, videotape management system, and virtual reference librarian. At the end of the book, a brief bibliography covers selected books and articles published from 1993 to 1998 on various library computer projects. In addition there is a list of 20 computer periodicals, a glossary of computer terms, and an index of computer software used in the various projects.
The book is for browsing only; it is intended to help readers find ideas and develop their own projects. The computer projects are a mix of quality and complexity. The brief description for each project only presents users with a skimpy plan, and they will have to contact individual libraries for detailed information. A work of this scope is probably better suited to a comprehensive Web site for easy maintenance and quick links to various library groups and responsible individuals.
