Automated Acquisition of Periodicals, L.A. SER. (Library Automation - Serials)

Abstract

The unprecedented growth of the information sources concerning science and technology makes it particularly urgent that the processes of information storage, information retrieval, information processing according to needs, representation of results and their storage in preparation for the subsequent processing stages be mechanized. With this end in view, it is necessary to produce a central "data base" in a "machine-readable form," which is accessible to creation, updating, processing and retrieval programs. This project describes the software system which creates the data base for the periodical purchasing department of a library and processes it by mechanizing the yearly cycle of activities. The following subjects are discussed: description of activities comprised in the yearly cycle; design of the data base; review of the mechanized processes; organizational and working routines; the forms of input-output; error checks at different stages; and system analysis and planning for the future. The Project lays stress on improving the familiarity of the librarian with the entirety of the data and activities involved. Its other purpose is to supply the contact between the librarian and the computer for the convenience of the librarian, who is not expected to be a computer expert. (Author)