SINCETHE 1960s, libraries have used technology in general, and computers
in particular, to automate a wide range of administrative, public,
and technical services tasks. Designed as an overview of major facets of
automation activity, this article surveys the current state of computer
applications in six areas of library work: circulation control, descriptive
cataloging, catalog maintenance and production, reference service,
acquisitions, and serials control. For each area, the discussion briefly
indicates the motives for automation and describes current dominant
approaches, citing examples of representative products and services.