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With the aid of a grant from the Council on Library Resources, The New York Public Library's Research Libraries conducted an experiment lasting from July 1971 through March 1972. The object of the experiment, which was in three parts or phases, was to determine the acceptability of microfilm as a substitute for the public card catalog, the new book catalog, and the authority file for the new book catalog. Because many of the cards in the heavily-used public catalog are badly deteriorated and in need of replacement, various alternatives, including microfilming and book publication, have been studied. Part I of the experiment was designed to test the feasibility of the first of these alternatives. Parts II and III, involving the use of microfilm as a substitute for the authority file and the new book catalog, as it related to the Processing Division, are reported on by the Chief of that Division. Part III also involved public use of The Research Libraries new book catalog on microfilm. A report on this part forms the final portion of the report. (Author)

This document describes a data processing system now being implemented that is designed to provide rapid retrieval of information concerning a certificate holder's status. A brief history of past and present methods of teacher certification processing is included. These methods are then compared to the system currently being implemented. The new system provides the capability of collecting substantially more data and of storing and retrieving it in a meaningful report format. According to the author, the primary benefits of this system over the old are the ease with which inquiries can be answered, the more rigorous editing capabilities, and the faster computer service. Information on the costs, the procedures, and the problems of implementing the system and some indications about the directions of future changes in recordkeeping are included. Numerous charts and sample forms conclude the report. (Author/DN)

Trade literature management aids currently evolving in the United States and Europe are discussed. The approaches to the problem are varied, but the common objective of literature control is evident. The U. S. seems to be firmly committed to the Uniform System, and, as a national system, it is ably suited to the needs of architects, contractors, and manufacturers. Its chief disadvantage is the lack of knowledge of the workings or even the existence of the system among the three groups it professes to serve. The main problem facing the European community is one of direction--systems used are as varied as the countries themselves. In the U. S., use of computers is invaluable for their speed in sifting, sorting, and updating processes. While in Europe, computers are being employed to find a common terminology for member nations of the International Council for Building Research, Studies, and Documentation (CIB). The work of the CIB is so far-reaching that the U. S. must become aware of its activities. U. S. participation, either as a CIB member or as an observer is desirable, and all CIB publications should be readily available to all. Microfilm systems available for the handling of building material literature are discussed. (Author/SJ)

A Survey of Oregon libraries was conducted to supply current background information on libraries. This information was needed for a long range plan to develop libraries in Oregon which is required by Public Law 91-600. In addition, the details about specific libraries are needed to evaluate applications for federal funds and to evaluate the effectiveness of the expenditures of funds in relationship to the whole library. The questionnaire covered: library building, library collection, circulation, interlibrary loan, the librarian and the community, quality of the books in the collection, and a sample of all materials circulated. This report is designed to summarize the findings of the survey and not to make recommendations for change in the library service of Oregon. (Author/NH)

Thirteen micrographic events have been identified which are expected to have the greatest impact on the libraries of today and tomorrow. They can be divided into two groups: Nine are of a technological nature and involve micrographic products; the remaining four are basically educational in nature and reflect positive responses from the library community to a changing micrographic technology. Most of the 13 have taken place within the past five years. Only recently have most events become powerful enough to have an individual effect on library practice. It is at this point in time, however, that a true synergy of the influence of these events is rendering the current level of library-micrographic knowledge obsolete. The 13 events to be discussed within the framework of this report are briefly presented. The author describes the many types of microforms, explains the differences between each type, and discusses the uses, benefits, and drawbacks of the various microforms. Included are a discussion of related technological events of the past decade and a list of microform equipment. Many technical terms are defined such as those describing the reproduction process of the various microform types. Also included is an annotated bibliography of the literature of micrographics. (Author/SJ)

An historical account of the apathy, neglect and mishandling of the archival papers of the State of North Carolina is given and the development of a truly archival agency is described. The subject of the second paper in this series of three papers is the relationship of archives to active record offices in North Carolina. It examines the State's Department of Archives' undertaking as they relate to the active records offices it works with to provide a more complete understanding of the archivists' role. The third paper is concerned with arrangement and accessioning of microfilms, with difficulties encountered in the filming and use of microfilm, and with the costs involved. This report concludes with some general information about storage problems, costs, and guides to materials available on microfilm. (Other papers from this Institute are available as LI 002962 - LI 002972 and LI 002974 through LI 002976). (NH)

Two Institute papers were concerned with genealogical research. "Manuscripts, Private Papers and Genealogical Research," deals with the handling and evaluation of unpublished and private papers in genealogical research. "The Genealogical Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints," discusses the Mormon Church's microfilming of original records of genealogical interest from all parts of the world and compiling them in one central dispository in Salt Lake City to facilitate research. (Other papers from this Institute are available as LI 002962-LI 002965 and LI 002967 through LI 002976). (NH)

The purpose of these guidelines, which are based upon approved standards and practices, is to help insure the archival quality and the usefulness of the microfilm publications. Included are guidelines for: determining the suitability of a body of records for microfilming, arranging and processing the records, determining roll breaks, preparing insert pages, preparing special instructions to the camera operator, inspecting the negative film, and preparing a descriptive pamphlet. Since each body of records is unique, it is not possible to anticipate every problem concerning selection and preparation that might arise, therefore the guidelines should be considered as an aid not a set of binding rules. (NH)

Microphotography for archives advocates the use of microfilm as a means of publication. The manual is an introduction for the archivist and provides definitions of microforms, microfilm, microfiche, microcards, and microprint. The uses and the advantages or disadvantages of both microforms and microfilm are presented. The manual also reviews archival operations, microfilm equipment, and storage and maintenance procedures of original negatives. (MM)

The use of microforms in academic environments has become a general source of concern to all those involved with it. To some extent, the issues underlying the concerns of these groups can be summarized as a question: How can an academic library achieve full benefit from microform media? To develop information and to probe the difficulties of managing and using library microforms, a conference was held at the University of Denver in December 1970. The overall perspective of the conference treated the library administrator as a mediator between competing interests and forces that are operative in the sphere of academic microform applications. The purposes of the meeting were to foster understanding and use of microform technology in academic libraries, enhance the utility of educational microforms through the exchange of ideas, and inform the academic library community and industrial sector of microform techniques, systems and requirements in an academic setting. Taken as a whole, this document reports constructive comment for the development of more effective microform utilization in the academic environment in differing situations. (Author/SG)

The purpose of this project was to determine whether children in a third-grade classroom could work together in a learning experience. Microfilm and microfilm readers were used as materials for the dual studying technique. Various microfilm companies copied books in different microforms, including 16mm and 35mm roll film, 16mm in containers, and microfiche. Both negative and positive images were produced. To judge the effectiveness of this approach to individualized instruction, a formal test program was devised. The tests show a dramatic educational gain for the children in the project. Evaluation of the materials indicated that they need to be made more applicable for classroom teaching. Testing methods were found to be insufficient; better ones need to be developed. It is recommended that similar studies be conducted. An appendix presents ITPA and SRA graphs for two students, as well as tabulations showing their percent gains on 12 tests. Graphs and tables are also given of class scores on visual association, composite ITPA, and total reading tests, as well as gains on SRA composite results. (CK)

A study compared the advantages and disadvantages of microform for classroom training applications. Three types of factors were considered: 1) student factors, such as material usage patterns, study styles, examination results, and fatigue; 2) instructor factors, such as attitudes and opinions, the role of the instructor, and the need for adjunct reference materials, and 3) administrative factors, such as logistics and the value which came from using microform. Three classes in an Air Force training school used microforms for a 30-hour course, and three control groups used the same material in hardcopy form. Findings showed that the trainees used the microform systems effectively and intensively over a one-week training period. The experimental group did as well as the control group on examinations. Almost three-fourths of the participants said they preferred to use the negative-image fiche for both classroom and home study. Fatugue resulting from microform use was not a pervasive problem. (Author/JK)

One of the specific recommendations in the Retrospective Conversion (RECON) feasibility report (ED 032 895) was that a pilot project be established to test various conversion techniques, ideally covering the highest priority material (English-language monograph records from 1960-68). A two-year pilot project was initiated in August 1969. This report is oriented toward the work of the project as a whole. The pilot project conducted at the Library of Congress covered five major areas: (1) testing techniques postulated in the RECON report in an operational environment, (2) development of procedures and computer programs to implement format recognition, (3) analysis of techniques for the conversion of older English-language materials in foreign languages using the roman alphabet, (4) monitoring the state-of-the-art of input devices that would facilitate conversion of a large data base, and (5) a study of microfilming techniques and their associated costs. The accomplishments of the pilot project are discussed in detail in this document. (Author/SJ)

This is the report of an attempt to develop and teach a high school American history course based on inquiry techniques. Chapter I and II discuss recent changes in teaching methodology and the author's interest in the problem. Chapter III details the search for materials. Chapter IV describes the new method being tested in the classroom. Students were provided with copies of mass publication magazines and newspaper microfilm produced in 1948. These materials, along with limited reprints of statistical data and secondary sources, constituted a "history laboratory." After following the 1948 campaign and arguing the major issues, each student voted and defended himself in a final essay examination. Evaluations by independent observers are presented in Chapter V. It was agreed that the course was more than normally popular, and that there were some real cognitive gains. The final chapter presents the author's assessment and recommendations regarding the art of teaching and the process of innovation. Appendices include numerous examples of work done by a random sampling of students in the experimental classroom. (Author/KSM)

Under the Vocational Education Amendments (1968) to the Vocational Education Act of 1963, innovative state-level projects entitled Vital Information for Education and Work (VIEW) have been implemented. VIEW was designed as a supplementary aid for counselors, teachers, and administrators to assist students in making occupational and career choices. VIEW makes current, relevant career information accessible to students via a system of microfilm cards and readers, a deck of occupational VIEW cards, and an index of occupations listed. The present research briefly presents results of a national survey, listing those states using VIEW or similar projects, their respective addresses, and stage of development of selected projects. Twenty-five states are included. (Author/NMF)

A review is made of the possible applications within the libraries of the City of London Polytechnic of the three basic types of microforms--microfilm, microfiche, and microopaques. Major uses outlined involve: 1) the exploitation of existing data bases; 2) the storage of back issues of periodicals; 3) the presentation of programed instruction; 4) the development of a machine-based library catalog; 5) the dissemination of material for correspondence courses; 6) the development of special collections and archives; and 7) the creation of a slide collection of art materials. The conclusion is reached that microforms are an inexpensive, flexible means of storing large quantities of materials in small areas. Given the increaseing trend toward the availability of microforms and the decreasing resistance to them by users, it is recommended that the Polytechnic's Library and Learning Resources Service begin to acquire microforms of major periodical runs and special collections and to invest in the necessary equipment. (PB)

The demonstration phase of Project VIEW (Vital Information for Education and Work) was designed to enable school counselors and administrators to familiarize themselves with the operation of the Regional Career Information System. VIEW provides information on 200 occupations requiring less than a baccalaureate degree. Objectives of the study were: (1) to provide occupational information on local job opportunities, (2) to show how students can utilize information, (3) to illustrate how one system can meet the needs of rural and urban youth, (4) to encourage students to discuss career information at home, (5) to demonstrate a process by which counselors can use information to aid noncollege bound youth, (6) to disseminate information detailing the services and results of this project, and (7) to demonstrate the services of this system to other areas. Data was obtained from three experimental and three control groups. Conclusions indicate that: (1) providing good information does not assure its effective use by counselors and staff, (2) the approach, utilized by this system, to information dissemination is well liked by students, and (3) parents play a major role in students' educational and career planning. This project was founded under provisions of Title III of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. (IM)

The objectives of this study is to identify the chief problem areas in microform technology and to direct attention to those upon which research should go forward immediately. Its constant focus is the needs of the user. The principal investigator undertook to gather the needed data by indepth interviews with individuals closely connected with all aspects of microform technology and use. These included library administrators, librarians responsible for direct supervision of microform collections, faculty members and other researchers, students, microform publishers and key personnel of other institutions which use microforms extensively. The data gathered were analyzed, interpreted, and refined in order to determine the more pressing problems involved in full utilization of microforms and what must be done to effect solutions. (JL)

The research activities of Project Intrex are directed toward the extension of man's intellectual reach by a new kind of control over access to information. Ways are sought to improve the efficiency of catalog search by utilization of interactive computing techniques, and to provide rapid access to full-text displays by utilizing microfilm storage and facsimile transmission. User experiments, the central subject of the report, show a great deal of work needs to be done, but are mainly encouraging. The principal remedy for existing budgetary constrainsts which have called for drastic retrenchment will be found in the organizational domain. If the purposes of special interest groups can be met at an acceptable cost, utilization of these techniques can spread through interlibrary cooperation and networking to gradually form a multidisciplinary library network. (AB)

This primer is intended to acquaint public, academic and special librarians with the current state of the art in microform technology. Brief discussion is given of the advantages and disadvantages, economics, reading and printing capabilities, continuous and unitized microforms and the various analogies of microfilm technology to other technology. Suggestions for keeping current are included. (AB)

Microform collections offer one of the more promising methods of increasing student learning while, at the same time, responding economically to the pressure of increasing enrollments. This study reports on the first phase of a 3-phase project to determine student acceptance of microform, and on the effectiveness of microform for learning. Included in this report are a description of the problem to be investigated, the methods and activities involved in establishing the project office and selecting staff, and the progress of the project to date. At this time, microform materials will be used in conjunction with the following courses: art appreciation, Black studies, college algebra, economics, freshman composition, life science, nursing, political science, basic psychology, and beginning college Spanish. Bibliographies for these courses have been prepared (included as appendices to the report) and will be microformed to provide most of the necessary course material. In concluding the Phase I report, the principal investigator observes that completion of the full study could have a meaningful effect on patterns of information storage and retrieval, and on the field of educational resources in general. (Phase II will involve the conduct of a pilot study using developed materials, and Phase III will involve the conduct of a full field study and evaluation of the results.) (JO)

Because of increased school enrollment and the explosion of knowledge in recent years, adequate secondary school libraries assume great importance in today's educational programs. In order for the library to best serve the student, adequate provisions for the selection of instructional materials and equipment should be provided. Provision should be made for circulating all types of materials for overnight use. Adequate time for library use should be provided all students during the school day; the library should be accessible to them in the evenings and on weekends and holidays. Teachers should cooperate with the librarian in planning library services and should familiarize themselves with resource material holdings in their subject areas. Funds available to purchase audiovisual materials should be used. Microfilming and microreading should be utilized to compensate for limited storage space. No library program can be completely successful without the interest and support of the school board, the principal, the superintendent, the teachers, and the librarian. (BS)

The purpose of this project was to test the effectiveness of a cooperative arrangement between the New York State Education Department and the New York State Employment Service, undertaken to produce and disseminate up-to-date information about local entry occupations for use in the career guidance of students. In a sampling of high schools and 2-year colleges in Nassau and Suffolk counties of the New York metropolitan area, four page description s of 200 entry occupations were prepared in two forms: (1) a loose-leaf binder and (2) a deck of microfilm aperature cards. Three comprehensive high schools, three academic high schools, three area vocational technical programs, and three 2-year colleges were supplied with the 200 occupational guides. Of the students who use the guides, 92 percent said they would recommend the guides to other students; 75 percent wanted to keep copies of the guides they had read. In proportion to enrollment, students in area vocational technical educational programs made twice as much use of the guides as did the students in either academic or comprehensive high schools, and 13 times as much use as students in 2-year colleges. (CH)

LIBRARY PLANNERS SHOULD EXPECT AUTOMATION, MICROFORMS, AND FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION TO MODIFY BUT NOT RADICALLY CHANGE THE LIBRARY AS THE INSTITUTION WE NOW KNOW IT TO BE. CHANGES WILL INVOLVE TRADE-OFFS IN SPACE AND DEMANDS FOR ADDITIONAL SPACE. (MF)

OBJECTIVES OF THE PENNSYLVANIA RETRIEVAL OF INFORMATION FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATION SYSTEM (PRIMES) PROJECT WERE TO DEVELOP AN INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM MATERIALS AND TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES FOR LOCAL PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO USE THE SYSTEM FOR CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT AND SELECTING INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS. BECAUSE BRIEF EXPERIENCE WITH THE SYSTEM PRECLUDES DISCUSSING EFFECTIVENESS, THIS REPORT DESCRIBES THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF PRODUCTS. A CENTRAL MICROFILM DOCUMENT FILE, CONSISTING OF 25,000 ANALYZED PAGES FROM ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS BASAL TEXT SERIES, AND ACCOMPANYING TOOLS, INCLUDING CONTENT AND BEHAVIOR AUTHORITY LISTS, WERE DEVELOPED BY SUBJECT SPECIALISTS AND PREPARED BY COMPUTER. TWO REGIONAL CENTERS WERE ESTABLISHED FOR SERVICE TO LOCAL SCHOOLS, AND PRIMES PERSONNEL HAVE PARTICIPATED IN TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS. EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS WHO STUDIED THE OPERATION RECOMMEND THAT THE SYSTEM BE APPLIED AND DATA COLLECTED FOR EVALUATION. CONCLUSIONS ARE THAT (1) ANALYSIS OF MATERIALS CAN BE DONE CENTRALLY BY A STATE EDUCATION AGENCY, (2) IT IS FEASIBLE TO APPLY NEW INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM MATERIALS, AND (3) SERVICE TO LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHOULD BE DECENTRALIZED. EXPANDING THIS SYSTEM AND MOVING TO OTHER AREAS AND STATE-WIDE SERVICES ARE SUGGESTED. APPENDIXES LIST PROJECT PERSONNEL, BASAL TEXTBOOK PROGRAMS IN FILE, AND FILE PARAMETERS. (JB)