Libraries, networks and OSI: a review of North American developments

This report, prepared by Lorcan Dempsey of UKOLN and commissioned by the British Library Research and Development Department, is one element in a larger review of networking undertaken by BLRDD. The text outlines how technological and service factors are combining to change the way in which libraries are using networks to deliver services to end-users and to communicate between themselves and other organizations. Coverage includes the computer networking context in both the United Kingdom, Europe, and North America. The OSI library applications standards are explained against the background of OSI and existing library projects. The study describes the impact and implications of computer networks and network information resources on librarians, information technology planners in universities, and those concerned with national networking policy.