A Nationwide Location Data Base and Service. Network Planning Paper Number 1, 1978. Final Report.

This working paper provides an initial discussion point for the construction of a national location service as a component of a national library and information service network. The study described had a dual purpose: (1) expansion of the Register of Additional Locations (RAL) data base by cooperative means, which involved identifying machine-readable data bases from which location reports could be obtained; and (2) a survey of users of the microform edition of the RAL to determine their requirements for location information and what improvements could be made. The survey was expanded to include all subscribers to the National Union Catalog (NUC) who receive the RAL as part of their annual subscriptions. A summary of responses, and detailed descriptions of the conclusions and recommendations are included. Distribution of the RAL in machine-readable form is recommended, allowing local or national entities the option of developing such online access as they find desirable. (Author/MBR)