Libraries Online: Cooperative Database Available to Purchase

The advent of computerized literature searching of on‐line databases has convinced librarians that a significant increase in both the quantity and quality of reference service can be delivered to library users. As part of a technically‐oriented academic environment, the Lehigh University Libraries in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania were particularly anxious to demonstrate to faculty, students, and the community the benefits available through online database technology. Therefore, searching of online databases began at the University Libraries in early 1978 and by 1981 the services used included Lockheed/DIALOG, SDC/ORBIT, and BRS.