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Most people don't realize how easy it is to improve library services with open source databases. Despite the fact that they are distributed free of charge, open source databases are powerful and stable enough for critical applications. With a little knowledge of HTML and some basic technical skills, you can quickly create databases to register users or volunteers, provide local directories or customized resources, track statistics, and perform other useful functions. There are many good commercial products, but open source databases are often the best option. They can be significantly easier to install, use, and customize to meet local needs.

Discusses XML, how it has transformed the way information is managed and delivered, and its impact on libraries. Topics include how XML differs from other markup languages; the document object model (DOM); style sheets; practical applications for archival materials, interlibrary loans, digital collections, and MARC data; and future possibilities. (LRW)

The article presents the discussion on academic libraries. Topics include OCLC cataloging, a home grown acquisition system running on college mini computer, and PCs connected to interlibrary loan networks and the DIALOG information service; and half the funds needed to purchase an innovative interfaces integrated library system.

Explains how to keep library systems healthy and functioning by taking sensible security measures. Examines why hackers would target library systems and how library systems are compromised. Describes tools that can help, including: firewalls; antivirus software; alarms; network analysis tools; and encryption. Identifies several strategies for making systems more secure and discusses what to do if the system is attacked. (AEF)

The Lehigh University Libraries came to the convergence of several important developments in its staffing and systems. The first development was replacing one of the Acquisitions Assistant positions in the Technical Services department with an Electronic Resources and Discovery Librarian. Second, the aging and potential obsolescence of the ILLiad interlibrary loan application and the very successful related GIST patron request add-on for acquisitions workflows. Third, the adoption of FOLIO at Lehigh and hiring of a developer to support the implementation, maintenance, and enhancements of the LSP. And lastly, there was interest in replacing paper recommendation forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article informs that the Internet's portrayal of metadata is contextually determined by code, scripting languages, and files that control design when delivered to the user. It mentions metadata has to be processed in some elaborate ways to be queried, weighted, and delivered to a searcher in the networked environment; and hashtag is used to order (or collocate) information on Twitter.

The article focuses on the evolution of academic libraries in the late 1990s, specifically looking at the role of library buildings, budgets and technology. It discusses the renovation and expansion of libraries; the integration of technology; and the increased support for library staff and collections through growing budgets. However, in the present digital age, academic libraries face new challenges like competition from online resources and limited control over access to information.

The article discusses MARC and non-MARC workflows. Topics include trends in collection development such as the increased focus on electronic resource acquisitions and open access publishing have impacted users to perceive library resources; a survey was held over the perception of MARC and non-MARC identity crisis; and several concerns were subsequently voiced about the future of non-MARC metadata control.

The article focuses on advantage taken by library consortium Orbis Cascade Alliance of shared integrated library system (ILS) and WorldShare Collection Manager to update bibliographic records. Topics discussed include desired automation to keep shared Network Zone repository free from childless bibs, library organization OCLC accuracy that controls number in Network Zone records and requiring vendor data to include OCLC numbers.

The article offers information on the University of Massachusetts Boston is an urban public research university and has student population several undergraduate and graduate students. Topics include considered that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Massachusetts Boston decided to move to online learning in March 2020 for the rest of the Spring semester for the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff.

The article reports on Linked data, a method for publishing structured data using vocabularies like schema.org that can be connected together and interpreted by machines.

This article describes methods for how staff with modest technical expertise can leverage the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) infrastructure in combination with third party storage and preservation solutions to build safer, more useful, and easier to manage repositories at much lower cost than is normally possible with standalone systems. It also demonstrates how understanding the underlying mechanisms and questioning the assumptions of technology metaphors such as filesystems can lead to seeing and using tools in new and more powerful ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity and diversity of archival resources make constructing rich metadata records time consuming and expensive, which in turn limits access to these valuable materials. However, significant automation of the metadata creation process would dramatically reduce the cost of providing access points, improve access to individual resources, and establish connections between resources that would otherwise remain unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Useful metadata is essential to giving individual meaning and value within the context of a greater image collection as well as making them more discoverable. However, often little information is available about the photos themselves, so adding consistent metadata to large collections of digital and digitized photographs is a time consuming process requiring highly experienced staff. By using facial recognition software, staff can identify individuals more quickly and reliably. Knowledge of individuals in photos helps staff determine when and where photos are taken and also improves understanding of the subject matter. This article demonstrates simple techniques for using facial recognition software and command line tools to assign, modify, and read metadata for large archival photograph collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]