Design, structure, and characteristics of a CD-ROM network in a university library

The article describes the implementation of a CD-ROM network in a university library as well as the network's integration into the information center. The characteristics of a network, technical problems, network licenses, and aspects concerning expansion and remote access are discussed. The menus, the design of centralized statistical control systems and the possibilities of connecting through VAX-Digital systems are highlighted. One of the most important aspects is the electronic integration of services which allows, from the same terminal, selective access to the university catalog for consultation or to theother network utilities (wordprocessing, graphics). This networking also permits bibliographic database searches on CD-ROM or on other magnetic mediums and the use of an automated subsystem for document delivery. The subsystem may request articles, check the status of the request, and carry out administrative and statistical controls.